SZ to present tech-culture grandeur at National Games closing ceremonies

The 15th National Games, along with the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, mark the first time that Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao will jointly host China’s top-tier, multi-sport events.

The closing ceremonies for these landmark events will be held in Shenzhen on Nov. 21 and Dec. 15, respectively.Members of the Guangdong team celebrate at the award ceremony after being crowned in the men's orienteering relay race in Maoming City, Guangdong Province on Thursday. This triumph marked the first gold medal of the mass competitions at the 15th National Games. Xinhua

During a press briefing held Thursday at the Shenzhen Civic Center in Futian District, organizers shared updates on preparations for the artistic and cultural showcases that will headline both ceremonies.

Shang Boying, president of Shenzhen Media Group and executive producer of the closing ceremonies, said the group is committed to delivering a world-class celebration guided by “the highest standards, the most practical measures, and the most professional attitude.” She emphasized that the events will reflect China’s grandeur, the vibrancy of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and the unique spirit of Shenzhen.

Liu Lei, head of the Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Culture, Media, Tourism, and Sports, unveiled the core creative team and the first wave of participating performance groups. The lineup features some of China’s most renowned artistic talent and top-tier performance troupes, promising shows rich in creativity, excellence, and cultural diversity.

Xiyangyang and Lerongrong, mascots for the 15th National Games. Shenzhen Economic Daily

Shen Chen, chief director of the closing ceremonies, shared one of the shows’ most ambitious ideas: the venue itself.

"Themed 'Stars and Sea,' the closing ceremonies will take place in a setting that blends ocean and sky, offering a dramatic and immersive stage unlike anything seen at past Games. What's more, the flame extinguishing segment will incorporate advanced technology, offering a fresh take compared to traditional methods," the director told the media. 

Shenzhen Bao'an Stadium, which will hold three sport events in the 15th National Games in 2025, has undergone comprehensive upgrades. Liu Xudong

The 15th National Games, set to take place from Nov. 9 to 21, will include 34 competitive sports and 23 mass participation events. While most of the competitions will be held in 15 cities in Guangdong, including Shenzhen, Hong Kong will host eight events including men’s basketball, track cycling, and fencing. Macao will take on four events, including table tennis and women’s volleyball.

The 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG) will be held in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao from Dec. 8 to 15.  

The National Games, held every four years, is the nation's highest-level and largest multi-sport event.