by Alison Brown
In two short years, we’ll be celebrating the opening of the LA 2028 Olympics! The LA28 Organizing Committee is well on its way to putting together the largest Olympics and Paralympics that we have ever seen. Lots of news has come out this spring and summer about what we can expect from the LA28 Olympics and Paralympics. Have you been keeping up? Not to worry – we have! Here is the latest:
Paralympic schedule released
We have the full details on the Paralympic schedule! This Paralympics program includes one new sport, para climbing, and for the first time, events will start before the Opening Ceremony.
Tickets won’t go on sale until next year, so you have plenty of time to plan which events you want to see in person. The final weekend features medal events in 19 sports!
Second ticket sale drop
Registration for the second drop of LA28 Olympic tickets ends this week, July 22, for tickets that will go on sale August 10-20. Registering for the lottery gets you the opportunity to win a place in line but does not guarantee or commit you to purchasing tickets. What do you have to lose by signing up? Nothing! You may get the chance to snag the Olympic tickets of your dreams.
Volunteer registration opens
The Games gets a lot of its magic from the massive volunteer corps that keeps the events running. Want to be a volunteer at the Games? You can now apply at LA28’s website. Applications for Olympic and Paralympic Games-time roles opened July 14. Organizers are looking for around 60,000 volunteers. Olympic volunteer jobs are available from March through August 2028; Paralympic jobs run August to September 2028.
Most of the volunteer assignments will be in the LA area, but organizers will also need volunteers for Oklahoma City (kayak slalom and softball), New York City, Columbus, OH, Nashville, TN, St. Louis, MO, San Jose, CA and San Diego, CA (all football cities) – opportunity for those of you in other parts of the country to get in on the fun!
Games-time volunteers don’t get paid, and they must provide their own travel and accommodations. Additionally, they’re expected to fill a certain number of shifts, so be sure to read the fine print on the application before you apply.
Organizers are also looking for volunteers who are local to the LA area to help with regular projects that aim to help restoration, sustainability and beautification efforts in and around LA.
Landmarks on display
Expect to see famous landmarks from around Southern California highlighted throughout the competition. The Olympic road cycling time trial will begin at LA Zoo and end on the grounds of the Griffith Observatory after a steep climb up Mount Hollywood. The Olympic road race will also finish in Griffith Park after starting at the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Get ready for lots of shots of the Hollywood sign!
New hospitality packages available
Want something extra special for your once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Olympics? Official hospitality provider On Location has announced new hospitality packages for equestrian and diving, along with additions to the offerings for athletics, beach volleyball, and golf. Attendees will enjoy climate-controlled lounges with “elevated beverage service, refined cuisine and exceptional field-of-play views.” Check out the latest at OnLocation’s website. For a deeper look at this Games’ hospitality offerings, check out our interview with On Location’s Paul Caine.
Hospitality houses galore
Did you catch the Cabo Verde love during the FIFA World Cup? Well you can continue the party at the Cabo Verde House at LA28, announced last week. Several countries, like Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, and Australia have already announced locations for their hospitality houses, as did the international federation for Artistic Swimming. Hospitality houses are a great way to get in on the Olympic spirit outside of events. Get all the details at houseparty.blog.
Photo: Jill Jaracz