On May 30, the 2026 Happy Run International Youth and Family Sports Carnival was held in Beijing. The event attracted over 500 participants, including diplomats and their children from a total of 31 diplomatic missions and international organizations based in China, as well as local youth and families from Beijing.

Launch Ceremony

[Photo courtesy of the organizer]

In the friendly football tournament, 16 youth teams from different countries and regions, grouped into U13 and U15 age categories, competed fiercely in a five-a-side format on a small field. The young players not only showcased their football skills, but also demonstrated true sportsmanship through teamwork and respect for their opponents.

Young players pose for a group photo.

[Photo courtesy of the organizer]

Match highlights

[Photo courtesy of the organizer]

Children's choir performance 

[Photo courtesy of the organizer]

Traditional Chinese martial arts performance

[Photo courtesy of the organizer]

During the carnival, captivating performances featuring traditional Chinese sports culture and a children's choir received warm applause.

More than ten fun sports activities also attracted enthusiastic participation from both Chinese and international families, including pickleball, obstacle courses, football target games, and basketball shooting games.

Mini bowling

[Photo courtesy of the organizer]

At the Chinese folk culture bazaar, activities such as kite making, Peking Opera mask painting, and face painting enabled Chinese and international youth to experience the unique charm of fine traditional Chinese culture up close through hands-on participation. Many foreign children tried painting Peking Opera masks and flying kites for the first time, and they excitedly said, "This is so much fun — I hope to join more activities like this!"

Face painting

[Photo courtesy of the organizer]

Peking Opera mask painting items

[Photo courtesy of the organizer]

The "Happy Run" youth fitness initiative aims to expand sports opportunities for young people, encourage physical exercise, and promote healthy lifestyles. The 2026 Happy Run International Youth and Family Sports Carnival not only created a lively platform integrating sports, entertainment, and culture for Chinese and international families, but also encouraged young participants to stay active through sports, forge friendships through cooperation, and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture through shared experiences.

(Source: CRI Online)