Beijing Olympic organizers are announcing the dates for the four phases of the Olympic year.

The preparatory phase will last until April 30th, when the 100-day countdown begins. All Olympic venues will be tested during this phase, along with emergency plans for traffic and environmental protection.

The warm-up phase will run from May 1st to July 27th, when the Olympic Village will open. At that point, all staff in the main operation center and Olympic venues will be in position. The joint rehearsal for the opening and closing ceremonies will also take place during this time.

And in Phase Three it will focus on ensuring a well-organized Games and the warm reception of guests and international media. This phase lasts from July 27th to September 20th.

Phase four begins after the Games, and will focus on post-event use of Olympic venues.