Venice Beach Olympic Viewing Party

Venice Beach, CA - August 9, 2024

Crowds gathered at Windward Plaza today as the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, in partnership with PlayLA, hosted the first in a series of citywide watch parties celebrating the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. The event, held at the Venice Beach Recreation Center, streamed live coverage of men's soccer, women's volleyball, and break dancing from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The series of viewing parties, announced by the L.A. Department of Recreation and Parks, aims to bring the excitement of the 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games to communities across Los Angeles. Through the PlayLA Youth and Adaptive Youth Sports Programs, the initiative also seeks to inspire local youth by providing access to quality sports programs at neighborhood recreation centers. PlayLA, California’s largest youth sports development commitment, serves as a legacy initiative leading up to and following the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Mayor Karen Bass expressed her hope that these events will build excitement as Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games for the third time in history. Mayor Bass, who will make history as the first Black woman to receive the official Olympic flag during the Paris Games Closing Ceremony, emphasized the importance of ensuring the Games benefit all Angelenos, particularly by supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and promoting lasting improvements throughout the city.

In anticipation of the 2028 Games, the PlayLA program is designed to engage youth of all abilities in a wide range of sports activities, including adaptive sports, with the goal of eliminating economic barriers and fostering inclusivity. Registration for youth aged 5-17 is just $10, thanks to an investment from the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee and the International Olympic Committee.

As the world turns its eyes to Paris, the spirit of the Olympics has already begun to touch the hearts of young Angelenos, starting today at Venice Beach.