The opening concert gathers young artists from over 20 countries and regions. [Photo by Luo Changwei/Guangzhou Daily]

The opening concert for a set of Guangzhou-based activities for the 12th China International Youth Arts Festival was held on Aug 30 at Guangzhou Opera House, gathering young artists from more than 20 countries and regions.

The China International Youth Arts Festival was set up in 2008 and has been held for 11 years. This year's festival features Tianjin and Guangzhou as its main venues, with more than 300 additional activities slated to be held in about 20 cities apart from the main venues, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Jinan, Xiamen, and Yantai.

Themed around "Dynamic Guangzhou, Charming Bay Area", the series of activities held in Guangzhou will last until the end of October. Thousands of young artists from about 40 countries and regions, such as China, the United States, Russia, France, Germany, Kazakhstan, and Hong Kong will participate in various kinds of cultural communication activities.

In addition to the opening ceremony, other events, such as workshops for young artists to share their stories of artistic growth, a carnival integrating performances, exhibitions, and communications, as well as an exhibition featuring the traditional art collections of over 30 embassies in China will take place during the festival.