Which country hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics?

Which country hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics? China hosted them, with the main events held in Beijing. Officially called the Games of the XXIX Olympiad, the Olympics took place from August 8 to August 24, 2008, although some football matches began two days earlier.

Beijing was selected by the International Olympic Committee in 2001, defeating bids from Toronto, Paris, Istanbul, and Osaka. The Games marked the first time China had hosted the Olympics and featured major new venues, including the Beijing National Stadium, widely known as the Bird’s Nest.

China hosted most events, but sailing took place in Qingdao, equestrian events were held in Hong Kong, and football matches were spread across several cities. Another frequent mix-up is the host city: Beijing was the principal host, while China is the correct country-level answer. Beijing later became the first city to host both Summer and Winter Olympics, after the 2022 Winter Games.