August 2, 2008 (15 images)

Fireworks explode over the National Stadium, called the Bird's Nest, and are reflected in the water, during the dress rehearsal for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing on August 2, 2008. The official opening ceremony for the Summer Games is August 8, 2008. (UPI Photo/Pat Benic)

Fireworks explode over the National Stadium, called the Bird's Nest, during the dress rehearsal for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing on August 2, 2008. The official opening ceremony for the Summer Games is August 8, 2008. (UPI Photo/Pat Benic)

Soldiers block a walkway for safety as fireworks explode over the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during a dress rehearsal for the opening ceremony of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing on August 2, 2008. (UPI Photo/Terry Schmitt)

Fireworks explode over the National Stadium, called the Bird's Nest, during the dress rehearsal for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing on August 2, 2008. The official opening ceremony for the Summer Games is August 8, 2008. (UPI Photo/Pat Benic)