Olympics closing ceremony is trip through Russian culture

By Steve Almasy, CNN

Updated 1146 GMT (1946 HKT) February 24, 2014

Fireworks explode over the Olympic park at the end of the closing ceremony for the Sochi Winter Olympics on Sunday, February 23.
Photos: Photos: Winter Olympics closing ceremony
Winter Olympics closing ceremony – Fireworks explode over the Olympic park at the end of the closing ceremony for the Sochi Winter Olympics on Sunday, February 23.
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The Olympic rings are lit by fireworks as the closing ceremony comes to an end.
Photos: Photos: Winter Olympics closing ceremony
Winter Olympics closing ceremony – The Olympic rings are lit by fireworks as the closing ceremony comes to an end.
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South Korean artists perform during the closing ceremony. Pyeongchang, South Korea, will host the Winter Olympics in 2018.
Photos: Photos: Winter Olympics closing ceremony
Winter Olympics closing ceremony – South Korean artists perform during the closing ceremony. Pyeongchang, South Korea, will host the Winter Olympics in 2018.
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The Olympic flag is handed over to Lee Seok-rai, mayor of Pyeongchang.
Photos: Photos: Winter Olympics closing ceremony
Winter Olympics closing ceremony – The Olympic flag is handed over to Lee Seok-rai, mayor of Pyeongchang.
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Olympic mascots the Hare, the Polar Bear and the Leopard stand by the extinguished Olympic flame.
Photos: Photos: Winter Olympics closing ceremony
Winter Olympics closing ceremony – Olympic mascots the Hare, the Polar Bear and the Leopard stand by the extinguished Olympic flame.
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A balloon floats through falling confetti during the ceremony.
Photos: Photos: Winter Olympics closing ceremony
Winter Olympics closing ceremony – A balloon floats through falling confetti during the ceremony.
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