The 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games Opening Ceremony mesmerized me. The first time I saw the Bird’s Nest, the building where it took place, my heart skipped a beat. When I saw one of the drums from the spectacle at the Musical Instrument Museum, I got teary eyed. So, you can bet I was super excited when I finally went inside the Chinese National Stadium.
This steel bowl is just as amazing inside as it is out. Most impressive to me is how intimate it felt while being so big. Every seat seemed to be a good seat. I can’t say that for other big stadiums I’ve been in. In addition to the functionality of the space, the beams are beautiful in their abstract design.
The most impressive views of the inside and the beam work come on the upper level. We hiked up the many stairs since none of the elevators seemed to be working and walked around the upper level. There were a few displays of items used during the ceremonies and other art.
I just loved peering up and through the beams as they swooped down and joined at interesting angles. The roofing material is beautiful too, and the pattern can only be appreciated from inside the stadium.
Today, the National Stadium is used for sporadic events. It hosted a major soccer tournament last year, and over the winter a big snow carnival event for kids. Some of my students went during the holidays to sled and play in the snow. Most likely this is in an effort to get people excited for the Winter Games that will come to the same stadium in 2022.
In addition to the stadium visit, they have a special ticket to get to the upper most part where there is an observation deck. I think it is where the torch was during the 2008 Games. Maybe next time, I’ll try that out.
