The 2026 Happy Run International Youth and Family Sports Carnival was held in Beijing on Saturday, bringing together nearly 600 participants, including diplomats and their children from 33 embassies, diplomatic missions and international organizations in China, as well as local youth and families from the capital.
Guided by the Youth Department of the General Administration of Sport of China, the event was co-hosted by the International Sports Exchange Center of the General Administration of Sport of China and the Beijing Diplomatic Service Bureau at the National Olympic Sports Center.
At the opening ceremony, a representative of the International Sports Exchange Center highlighted the role of sport as a bridge connecting people across cultures and borders. The official expressed hope that young participants from China and abroad would build friendships, enjoy physical activity and experience the appeal of Chinese culture through the event.
The carnival opened with performances showcasing traditional Chinese sports and culture, accompanied by a children”s choir. Martial arts demonstrations and choral performances set the tone for the event’s integration of sport and cultural exchange, drawing enthusiastic applause from participants and spectators alike.
One of the day’s highlights was a youth football friendship tournament featuring 16 teams from different countries and regions. Divided into U13 and U15 age groups and played under a five-a-side format, the matches provided opportunities for young athletes to display their skills while demonstrating teamwork, mutual respect and sportsmanship.
The sports carnival zone offered a variety of interactive activities. Pickleball made its debut at the event and quickly became one of the most popular attractions due to its accessibility and suitability for family participation. Chinese and international youths engaged in friendly matches and exchanges on the court.
Other activities included obstacle challenges, football target games, basketball shooting contests, mini bowling, beanbag games, inflatable attractions and several other recreational sports designed to encourage participation and teamwork.
A traditional Chinese cultural fair also attracted strong interest. Activities such as kite making, Peking Opera mask painting, rubbing art and face painting enabled young participants to engage directly with elements of Chinese intangible cultural heritage. Many international children tried painting opera masks and flying kites for the first time, expressing enthusiasm for the hands-on cultural experiences.
Organizers said that, by combining physical activity with international exchange, the 2026 International Youth and Family Sports Carnival provided a platform where families could participate in sports, entertainment and cultural activities together.
