HAIKOU /China/, November 27. /TASS/. Nearly 7,000 athletes are taking part in China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities in Sanya, being held in the city of Sanya in the southern province of Hainan. The competition began on November 22 and will continue until November 30.

According to the Hainan International Communication Network (HICN), athletes representing 56 ethnic groups living in China are competing in 18 sports and participating in demonstrations in three disciplines.

The games kicked off with a grand ceremony featuring a spectacular show. Representatives from each ethnic group performed 30-second routines, and the opening ceremony itself lasted about two hours. The stage was decorated with scenes depicting the color and features of Hainan Island: beaches, tropical islands, coconut trees, and many other elements that were presented to the audience, including the use of unusual design solutions and digital technology. The colorful show was watched by about 35 thousand spectators.

After the opening ceremony, a cultural and sports exhibition with the theme "The Great Family of the Chinese Nation, a New Journey to Realize Dreams with One Heart" was announced. The expo focuses on showcasing China's rich history and culture and calling on the younger generation to unite.

Such competitions were first held in 1953. About 400 athletes from 13 ethnic groups participated. The competition was held in the city of Tianjin. The second games were held 29 years later in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.