Event organizer guide: hosting unforgettable pop-ups in 2028 LA
The world is watching the 2028 Summer Olympics coming to Los Angeles. More than 15 million people are expected to attend, and millions will tune in globally. For event organizers, that means one thing: the opportunity of a lifetime.
Pop-up events offer brands a powerful way to connect with diverse audiences through immersive, quick, and buzz-worthy experiences. Suppose you're an agency producer or a solo event planner. In that case, this guide delivers everything you need to make your LA 2028 pop-up unforgettable.
The game plan: how to execute an unforgettable pop-up step-by-step
The countdown to LA 2028 has begun, and your pop-up could be the talk of the town. So, you must be ready to make it count:
A. Set a clear event goal
Know your main goal first, so this will guide your entire pop-up plan. A crystal-clear goal helps align every element from design to staffing to promotion.
Build brand awareness? Use the pop-up to immerse visitors in your brand story with bold visuals and interactive elements.
Launch a new product or collaborate? Create a hands-on demo or limited-drop experience that builds hype and exclusivity.
Drive sales or sign-ups? Offer irresistible incentives, discounts, freebies, or VIP perks in exchange for purchases or email captures.
Create Instagrammable moments? Design photogenic spaces and hashtag prompts that make every share feel like a win.
B. Scout and secure the perfect LA location
Location can make or break your activation. Don't overlook private rooftops, open lots, or creative warehouse venues that allow more design freedom.
LA is massive, so target high-traffic, event-adjacent zones like:
Downtown LA: Pick Downtown LA if you want to be near big crowds and Olympic events.
Inglewood: Choose Inglewood to catch the fans going to SoFi Stadium.
Santa Monica/Venice: Go with Santa Monica or Venice for a fun beach vibe that fits fashion and lifestyle brands.
Hollywood and Highland: Use Hollywood and Highland to reach tourists and lots of foot traffic.
Rooftops, lots, or warehouses: Think about rooftops, empty lots, or cool warehouses for a space you can design your way.
C. Permits, licenses, and red tape—handled
Planning an event in Los Angeles means dealing with several permits and approvals. First, you’ll need a Temporary Event Permit to legally set up your event.
Fire safety and health approvals are also necessary to ensure your event is safe and hygienic. If your event includes music or a performance, you’ll need a Noise Permit.
For events with food and drinks, a Food License is required. Taking care of these permits early on will help avoid delays and make the event planning process go smoother.
Pro tip: Partner with a local premier location company, providing unique venues for events, and familiar with LA bureaucracy. It'll save you time and headaches.
D. Design for experience, not just looks
Your pop-up must do more than look pretty. It should engage the senses and tell a story. If it's Instagrammable and functional, you've hit gold.
Photo booths, art, AR games: Add fun things people can touch, play with, or take photos in.
Easy to walk through: Make sure people can move around easily and not feel lost.
Olympic themes: Use small touches that show unity, teamwork, and world spirit.
Shade, water, and chargers: Give people places to rest, drink water, and charge phones.
Fun and useful: People will love it if it looks cool and works well.
E. Logistics and staffing like a pro
To keep your pop-up running smoothly, plan all the little things that make a big difference. LA summers are hot and hectic; design your logistics to be resilient and adaptive. Plan for:
Power and Wi-Fi: Make sure you have power and internet so people can pay and you can go live.
Trash and cleaning: Have trash bins and a cleaning team to tidy the place.
Staff gear: Dress your team in the same shirts so guests know who to ask for help.
Security: Have security to keep everyone safe and happy.
Backup plans: Be ready for heat, big crowds, or delays so nothing stops your event.
F. Promotion: build buzz before you launch
Let people know about your pop-up early so they get excited and tell others too. Use QR codes on-site to drive sign-ups and shares. Encourage user-generated content with branded hashtags.
Start your marketing weeks before opening day:
Teaser videos: Share short, fun videos online to show what's coming.
Work with influencers: Ask popular LA people to talk about your event.
Countdown page: Make a simple webpage that counts down to your event.
Perks and RSVPs: Give prizes or early spots to people who sign up fast.
QR codes and hashtags: Use codes and hashtags so guests can share your pop-up online.
Pop-up concepts that will stand out in LA 2028
In a sea of activations, go beyond the basic plan. Here are ideas built to win:
Olympic energy zones: cool-off lounges with branded misters, music, and wellness drinks
Fan cam booths: interactive video/photo experiences with Olympic backdrops
Taste of nations pods: global bites with chef collabs and immersive food storytelling
AR/VR story tunnels: let guests experience your brand through interactive storytelling
Plastic-free pop-ups: eco-forward spaces powered by solar energy and designed for impact
Bonus: tie your concept to community causes or athlete stories for a deeper connection.
Timeline to execute your pop-up with key milestones
Planning a winning pop-up for LA 2028 takes more than just great ideas, it takes perfect timing. Stick to these milestones, and you'll be set for success.
| Timeline | Key Tasks |
|---|---|
| 12–9 months out | Set your budget, brainstorm creative ideas, and scout locations. |
| 8–6 months out | Lock in your venue, start permits, and book trusted vendors. |
| 5–3 months out | Finalize design, begin building, and launch your promo plan. |
| 2 months out | Do a logistics test, train your staff, and boost pre-launch buzz. |
| Event month | Run the pop-up, make daily tweaks, and share it live online. |
Beginner event mistakes that can ruin your pop-up
Even the pros make mistakes, but you don't have to! Avoid these common slip-ups to ensure your LA 2028 pop-up is smooth and successful.
Delaying permits: Don't wait too long to secure permits—last-minute stress can derail your plans.
Overcomplicating the build: Keep things simple and modular for a fast and easy setup.
Ignoring LA traffic or heat: Plan for delays and provide shade and hydration to keep everyone comfortable.
Not training staff: Ensure your team is ready for crowd engagement and safety.
Your Olympic moment starts now!
Millions will watch the LA 2028 Olympics. It's your time to shine. Whether you're big or small, your pop-up can stand out. Plan early, stay creative, and use this guide to help you. You'll be ready to make a pop-up that people love and share.
Need help with a venue? Contact Buttercup Venues today, and let's make it unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I host a pop-up during the LA 2028 Olympics?
Hosting a pop-up during the LA 2028 Olympics gives your brand global visibility, access to millions of visitors, and the chance to connect with a diverse audience. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create memorable experiences that could gain worldwide attention.
What type of staff should I hire for my LA 2028 pop-up?
Hire friendly, professional, and knowledgeable staff about your brand. It's important to have people who can engage with guests, manage the crowd, and ensure safety. Depending on the scale of your pop-up, you may also want to hire security personnel.
When should I start planning my LA 2028 pop-up?
Start planning as early as possible, ideally 12 months before the event. The best venues and vendors fill up quickly, so securing your location early ensures you have more options and lower costs. It also allows time for logistics, staffing, and creative execution.
