The opening ceremony for the 5th East Asian Games was held on Saturday on a floating stage in Hong Kong's landmark Victoria Harbor.

The ceremony opened with the raising of both The Chinese National flag and the SAR flag and with children performing the national anthem. Famous Hong Kong singers then gave performances. The show reflected the city's history, modern skyline, and the spirit of the Hong Kong people.

On the water, in the background of the performance, there was a parade of vessels, laser light effects and a fireworks display. Since the ceremony was not limited within a stadium, it was able to attract more spectators than any previous East Asian Games opening.

The Games are Hong Kong's first large-scale, international multi-sports event. The Hong Kong SAR chief executive Donald Tsang made a speech and the games were formally opened by State Councilor Liu Yandong.