As the world watched the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Italy on February 6, a different but equally lively celebration was unfolding in China. This parallel celebration began at the Beijing Olympic Museum near the iconic Bird’s Nest, the very stadium that launched the Beijing 2022 Winter Games, in late January.
It offers visitors a journey through Winter Games history alongside an immersive experience of traditional Chinese New Year customs. The event also features a bustling marketplace showcasing specialty products from other countries, creating a global cultural exchange. Beyond history and shopping, visitors can dive into the thrill of winter sports through interactive virtual reality games.
(Text and photos by Wei Yao)







