The city of Harbin in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province is gearing up for a spectacular opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games on February 7. With less than a month to go, chief director Sha Xiaolan promises an unforgettable showcase that will capture the enchanting charm of Harbin.
“The overall progress has been very smooth,” Sha told China Media Group (CMG). “We started rehearsals for individual segments at the main venue in December, and I’m pleased to say that this phase has been successfully completed.”
Sha and his creative team, renowned for their work on the opening and closing ceremonies of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, aim to replicate their past success. “We are now moving on to the next stage, where we will integrate all the segments together for a cohesive performance,” Sha said. “Our aim is to present a simple, yet spectacular and safe opening ceremony that resonates with the theme of this event: ‘Dream of Winter, Love among Asia.'”
The ceremony will feature iconic landmarks of Harbin, including Central Avenue, Ice and Snow World, and Music Square. “These elements will be woven into the fabric of the opening ceremony, serving as both our aesthetic inspiration and foundation,” Sha explained. “They showcase the enchanting charm of Harbin.”
A record number of athletes are set to participate in Harbin 2025. A total of 1,275 athletes from 34 countries and regions have registered, including first-time participants Cambodia and Saudi Arabia. The event is poised to have the most participants in the history of the Asian Winter Games.
As the countdown begins, Harbin is preparing not just to host a sporting event but to bring together cultures and showcase the unity and spirit of Asia. The city’s residents and visitors alike eagerly anticipate an opening ceremony that promises to be both a visual feast and a heartfelt tribute to winter sports and Asian solidarity.
Reference(s):
Harbin prepares for spectacular Asian Winter Games opening ceremony
cgtn.com
