While some were nervous about the idea of the Summer Olympics being held in Beijing, the hosting nation welcomed the world with open arms and presented an awe-inspiring opening ceremony and smooth-running competitions.

On this day, August 24th, in 2008, the Beijing Summer Olympics closing ceremony took place.  The ceremony is considered one of the most spectacular closing events in Olympic history.  The event featured performances by Jimmy Page and Leona Lewis.  More importantly, the event featured the handover of the Games from Beijing to London, which will host the 2012 Olympic Games.

The Beijing Olympics closing ceremony marked the end of a successful games.  Interestingly enough, the hosting nation won the most gold medals (51) with 15 more than the second place United States.