By Jill Unze
This summer, we finally made it to the Summer Olympics in Paris. Our original trip to Europe had been delayed due to COVID-19, but when our rescheduled visit coincided with the Games, I was excited and apprehensive. Crowds aren’t my thing, and while I enjoy sports, I wouldn’t consider myself an avid fan.
We arrived a week ahead of the opening ceremony, eager to explore France. Surprisingly, Paris felt eerily empty. Many locals had fled the city to escape the impending chaos, and preparations for the Olympics had blockaded much of the area. Tourist attractions had reduced hours, but the relative quiet allowed us to enjoy what was open without the usual crowds. As the opening ceremony approached, the city gradually filled with energy and anticipation.
Accompanying us was a friend from Long Beach who had meticulously planned our Olympic experience. He made sure we attended events that would also take place in Long Beach in 2028. We opted for a variety of ticket types—ranging from budget-friendly options to hospitality packages—to get a taste of what to expect during the Olympics.
On the night of the opening ceremony, we were fortunate to score tickets to the Team USA House. For a premium price, we enjoyed all-inclusive food and drinks alongside fellow American tourists, families of athletes, and a few athletes themselves. Watching the ceremony on a big screen was nothing short of spectacular, despite the rain. Leading up to the event, we had seen acrobats on high slack lines and flames shooting from buildings along the Seine; now, it all made sense.
The following day, we attended one of the many free Club 24 events scattered throughout the city. Set in public squares and parks, these gatherings featured food vendors, restrooms, and large screens for viewing events. It was a wonderful way to mingle with locals and tourists alike. That evening, we had tickets for beach volleyball under the Eiffel Tower. Upon entering, we encountered interactive volleyball simulations and courts for fans to experience the sport firsthand. Our seats were excellent, and despite the oppressive heat, we enjoyed the highly competitive matches. What struck me most was the crowd's generosity; while fans cheered for their own countries, there was an incredible spirit of encouragement for all athletes. Unfortunately, beach volleyball will now be played in Santa Monica rather than Long Beach.
The next day, we attended men’s handball with cheaper tier tickets, which covered a block of three matches. To my surprise, handball was fast-paced and action-packed. I’m definitely planning to get tickets for this event in Long Beach in 2028! It would be great if the city hosted clinics leading up to the Olympics to teach kids the sport and build excitement. Interestingly, the rally music played during the matches was in multiple languages, with many Europeans singing along. I felt distinctly American knowing only the English songs.
On day three, we staked out our spots along the triathlon course at dawn, enjoying the event for free. The concerns about water quality were real, but the real challenge for the athletes was the strong current. Watching them swim down the river and then struggle to return upstream was mesmerizing. Our group, all current and former triathletes, found this event especially thrilling. The fans, particularly the French, were exuberant, making the experience unforgettable. This is definitely a must-watch for LA28 in Long Beach.
That night, we attended a VIP hospitality event at another Club 24, hosted in a stunning historic building along the Seine. The venue featured fascinating exhibits, including virtual reality sports headsets, a mock Olympic Village athlete dorm room with a cardboard bed, and a collection of Olympic torches. My favorite exhibit showcased life-size posters of athletes from various sports, highlighting the diversity of elite athletes. The event also offered a variety of food and beverage vendors, along with large screens for watching swimming. We made friends from all over the world, and I hope Long Beach can replicate this atmosphere with both free and VIP viewing options. I’d love to see the BHCA host a neighborhood watch party!
Our final event was a men’s quarter-final football match in Bordeaux, where we watched France take on Argentina. Although Olympic soccer won’t be held in Long Beach, I highly recommend attending a match if you get the chance. The fans were electric, especially the passionate French supporters.
What impressed me most—and what excites me for LA28 in Long Beach—is the incredible network of 45,000 volunteers needed to pull off an event of this scale. I can’t wait for our city to come together to welcome fans and athletes from around the world. Reflecting on this experience, I realize that while preparing for future Olympics will require extensive work, the heart of what I witnessed in Paris will forever inspire me. This gathering of humanity was a powerful reminder that when we come together, we truly shine.
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