The LA28 ceremonies will be two of the most in-demand events of the Games. Here is what is confirmed, what remains subject to change, and how to plan lodging and transportation without relying on guesswork.
Planning status: This article reflects official information available September 30, 2026. Ceremony operations, entry gates, transit plans and prohibited-item rules will be finalized closer to the Games.
Confirmed Dates and Locations
The Olympic Opening Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, July 14, 2028. LA28 identifies the Inglewood “2028 Stadium” as the main Opening Ceremony venue, with a linked celebration at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Closing Ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, July 30, 2028 at the Coliseum in Exposition Park.
| Event | Date | Primary area | Planning focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opening Ceremony | July 14, 2028 | Inglewood | Transit and security perimeter |
| Closing Ceremony | July 30, 2028 | Exposition Park | Metro and late return |
Use the official LA28 Games Plan as the source of record because schedules and venue naming can change.
Where to Stay
For the Opening Ceremony, Inglewood, the LAX area and selected South Bay locations can reduce distance to the stadium area. Downtown LA offers more rail connections and puts you closer to the Closing Ceremony, but it may require a special Games shuttle or multiple transit legs to Inglewood.
For the Closing Ceremony, Downtown LA, Koreatown and neighborhoods along the Metro E Line are practical starting points. The Coliseum is next to the Expo Park/USC station, but event-day access controls may alter the normal walking route.
Best rule for a two-ceremony trip: Choose the hotel that best serves most of your other ticketed sessions. A single ceremony should not force a poor base for the rest of your stay.
Transportation Strategy
LA28 describes the Games as transit-first, and official accessibility guidance says spectator parking will not be available at venues. Metro is developing an enhanced transit service for the Games, including supplemental buses and venue connections. Exact ceremony service plans will come later.
- Follow the route in the official LA28 app or journey planner when released.
- Leave a large buffer for security screening and controlled pedestrian approaches.
- Do not schedule a restaurant reservation immediately before or after a ceremony.
- Identify a backup route and a safe, well-lit meeting point away from the main exit flow.
- Keep your phone charged and save your hotel address offline.
Arrival Timing
Ceremony tickets will include or link to official arrival instructions closer to the event. Until then, avoid inventing a precise “arrive by” time. Expect a longer process than at a normal stadium event because of ticket checks, screening, crowd management and possible zone-based entry windows.
Plan the ceremony as the only major activity in that part of the day. A museum visit across town, a beach afternoon or a flight arrival on the same day adds avoidable risk.
Tickets and Seating
General-public Olympic ticket sales are expected to reopen in 2027 on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability. Ceremony tickets are typically among the most competitive. Buy only through channels confirmed on LA28’s official ticketing page.
Accessible ticket categories are planned for all Olympic and Paralympic sessions, subject to inventory. If you need wheelchair, semi-ambulatory or companion seating, review the category carefully and contact LA28 accessibility support before purchase if the description is unclear.
What to Bring
Final bag and prohibited-item policies are not yet published. A safe planning assumption is to travel light: mobile ticket, identification if requested, payment card, compact sun protection, an empty refillable bottle only if permitted, essential medication and a small power bank. Check the official event page again 24 hours before departure.
After the Ceremony
Expect the immediate station or shuttle queue to be busy. Follow staff directions rather than walking toward an unofficial pickup point. If you use rideshare, move only to a designated zone and confirm the plate before entering the vehicle.
Families and groups should agree on a reunification plan before entering. Mobile service can slow in dense crowds, so choose a physical landmark and set a waiting time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the two ceremonies at the same venue?
No. Current plans place the main Opening Ceremony at the Inglewood stadium, with a linked Coliseum celebration, and the Closing Ceremony at the Coliseum.
Can spectators park at the ceremony venues?
LA28 currently describes the Games as transit-first and says there will be no spectator parking at venues. Wait for the official transport plan before choosing a park-and-ride location.
Are ceremony times final?
Dates and announced times remain subject to change. Confirm them on LA28.org and in your ticket account before making day-of plans.