Earlier today, in Guangzhou, China, the Opening Ceremony for the 16th Asian Games took place, with lavish stagecraft, costumes, fireworks and performers welcoming participants. Some 14,000 athletes from 45 countries and territories will compete in 42 sporting disciplines until November 27. Collected here are colorful scenes from Guangzhou, China.
Illuminated performers take part in the opening ceremony of the 16th Asian Games on November 12, 2010. (REUTERS/Mick Tsikas)
Artists perform aboard a ship in the opening ceremony of the 16th Asian Games on November 12, 2010. (LIU JIN/AFP/Getty Images)