Los Angeles is preparing for the 2028 Summer Olympics by planning a network of hospitality houses that will serve as cultural gathering spots throughout the county. These temporary venues will host watch parties, concerts, regional meals, and meet-and-greets with medalists. The initiative aims to provide international fans with a home away from home and allow local residents to engage with Olympic culture even if they do not have tickets to the games.
Dilpreet Sidhu, the city’s deputy mayor of international affairs, stated that Los Angeles expects to host between 60 and 70 hospitality houses. This number represents a significant increase from the approximately 40 houses seen in Paris in 2024. Paul Krekorian, the executive director of major events for Los Angeles, noted that these partnerships can generate meaningful economic opportunities by supporting local businesses and investing in the workforce.
France has selected the Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica as its base. Consul General Adrien Frier described a vision that connects French identity with the city through local hiring and school exchanges. Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, president of the French National Olympic Committee, called the planned Club France an essential fixture of the games that promises to be iconic.
Switzerland will occupy the historic Camera Obscura and the surrounding Palisades Park area in Santa Monica. Alexandre Edelmann, head of Presence Switzerland, highlighted the site’s appeal regarding light and perspective. He aims to integrate Swiss businesses with local vendors, such as those from the Santa Monica farmers market, and hopes that relationships formed during the games will continue afterward.
In Venice, Australia will establish its house at 57 Windward. The venue will feature Australian musicians, chefs, and athletes, with a focus on beach life and brunch. Brent Hill, marketing chief for Brisbane 2032, said the house will introduce visitors to Queensland and include a television studio to broadcast coastal images back to Australia.
New Zealand has chosen the Culver Hotel and Town Plaza in Culver City. Organizers plan to combine an indoor hospitality house with a public fan zone in the plaza. Nicki Nicol, chief executive of the New Zealand Olympic committee, emphasized the guiding principle of manaaki, a Maori concept involving care and respect. The programming will include cultural performances and opportunities for children to meet competitors.
Denmark will anchor its presence in Long Beach with the historic training ship Danmark docking at Pine Avenue Pier from July 11 to 31, 2028. The ship will serve as the center for Denmark Village, which will highlight design, sustainability, and maritime traditions. The Danish Olympic Committee will also operate the House of Denmark at the Westin Long Beach for official receptions and gatherings.
Greece will host its events at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Long Beach. The program will focus on Hellenic Olympic values and memorabilia from the 1896 games in Athens. Jimmy Eleopoulos, an ambassador for the Hellenic Olympic Committee, stated that the goal is to showcase Greek culture and heritage through exhibitions and school visits.
Ireland has selected Ovation Square in Long Beach after considering numerous sites. Peter Sherrard, chief executive of the Olympic Federation of Ireland, said the location’s proximity to sailing and rowing events was a key factor. The house will feature Irish musical acts at night and daytime activities focused on food, tourism, and sports technology.
Germany will use the Bel-Air Bay Club in Pacific Palisades for its hospitality events. The club was spared by the recent Palisades fire, and organizers wanted to support the affected region. The venue will provide sweeping ocean views for Team Deutschland guests. Croatia has also secured a location in San Pedro, planning a free waterfront fan zone at West Harbor alongside an invitation-only Croatia House.
Additionally, a cluster known as Nations Village is planned for Crescent Bay Park in Santa Monica. This temporary broadcast center will serve media partners and participating national houses. The project includes the restoration of the park’s historic pergola, though details on specific participating brands and public programming are still being finalized.
