The glamour filled opening ceremony is attended by Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam and a vast array of high-level government officials and other domestic and foreign dignitaries.

Pictured is a view of the stage at the city of Tam Ky Beach Square just prior to the start of the ceremony.

The opening starts with an amazing light show.

Followed by Cham folk song performances.

Fanciful Cham dances.

Traditional dances of Co Tu ethnic minority girls.

Other traditional Co Tu dances signifying spiritual sacrifice and buffalo slaughters.

Ba Trao singing, a special art of the south-central coastal region.

Chau Van singing.

Songs and dances of fishermen.

Singer Quang Hao performs at the opening ceremony.

Hue Royal Court Music performances.