As the ninth Asian Winter Games draw near, Harbin in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province is gearing up to host a breathtaking opening ceremony on February 7. Chief director Sha Xiaolan has promised audiences a spectacular show that will capture the enchanting charm of the city.
“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, are aiming to replicate their previous 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 added, “thereby showcasing the enchanting charm of Harbin.”
A total of 1,275 athletes from 34 countries and regions have registered for Harbin 2025, including Cambodia and Saudi Arabia making their Asian Winter Games debut. This edition is expected to set a new record for participation in the history of the event.
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Harbin prepares for spectacular Asian Winter Games opening ceremony
cgtn.com
