Beijing Olympics 2025: Incredible Opening Ceremony Highlights

2022 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony Highlights

Much of the world’s attention was on the Beijing National Stadium on Friday as the venue hosted the opening ceremony for the 2022 Winter Olympics.

Iconic Venue – Bird’s Nest

The stadium, commonly referred to as the Bird’s Nest due to its unique design, also hosted the opening ceremony for the 2008 Summer Olympics. This marks a historic milestone as Beijing is the first city in history to host both the Summer and Winter Olympics.

Attendance and Boycotts

Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the ceremony alongside many international dignitaries. However, leaders from numerous democratic nations, including Great Britain, Australia, and Canada, notably did not attend, as they joined a US-led diplomatic boycott due to concerns about Beijing’s human-rights record.

COVID-19 Precautions

As this is the second Olympics to be conducted during the coronavirus pandemic, extensive COVID-19 countermeasures were implemented. Similar to the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, the Games will take place within a “closed loop system,” a bubble entirely separated from the wider city. Additionally, tickets are not available for general sale but will be distributed through official channels.

Memorable Moments

Fireworks burst in the shape of the Olympic rings.
Fireworks burst in the shape of the Olympic rings. Jeff Pachoud/AFP/Getty Images
Children perform during the opening ceremony.
Children perform during the opening ceremony. Jae C. Hong/AP
Performers holding doves surround the Olympic flame.
Performers holding doves surround the Olympic flame. François-Xavier Marit/AFP/Getty Images
The Chinese and Olympic flags fly together at the opening ceremony.
The Chinese and Olympic flags fly together at the opening ceremony. Jae C. Hong/AP
Performers take part in Friday's ceremony.
Performers take part in Friday’s ceremony. Kyodo/AP
Soldiers prepare to raise the Olympic flag.
Soldiers prepare to raise the Olympic flag. Catherine Ivill/Getty Images

Cultural Significance

The opening ceremony, rich in cultural significance, showcased various performances that celebrated both tradition and modernity, reflecting the host nation’s heritage and aspirations for a peaceful global community.

Fireworks explode over the Beijing National Stadium.
Fireworks explode over the Beijing National Stadium. Julian Finney/Getty Images

Conclusion

The 2022 Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Beijing was a landmark event, showcasing not only athletic spirit but also emphasizing solidarity and cultural heritage. Despite the backdrop of global concerns, it stood as a testament to the vision of unity through sports.


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