In a spectacular pre-taped event at Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach, iconic California artists including the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, Dr. Dre, and Snoop Dogg delivered an electrifying performance that will be featured during the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics. The concert, filmed on Saturday, August 10, is set to be a highlight of the ceremony, which begins at noon on Sunday, August 11. The footage will also play a significant role in the handover segment to the 2028 Los Angeles Games, with additional coverage slated for primetime on NBC at 7 p.m.
The event underscores a significant moment for LA28, with LA28 Chairperson Casey Wasserman expressing excitement about showcasing local talent on a global stage. “This is the biggest moment in LA28 history to date, as the Olympic flag passes from Paris to LA,” Wasserman stated. “We are thrilled to feature the very best of LA with local artists and are grateful to Billie, H.E.R., the Chili Peppers, and Snoop for their collaboration on what will be an incredible show to a global audience that will give fans a taste of what’s to come in 2028.”
Among the performers, H.E.R. is confirmed to sing the U.S. national anthem live at the Stade de France, adding to the event’s local flavor.
In the lead-up to the shoot, Long Beach residents observed changes along Ocean Boulevard, including “No Parking” signs and a fenced-off area around Rosie’s Beach. The area was adorned with banners, faux palm trees, and “LA28” installations, featuring a crowned “LA28” sign surrounded by sand-sculpted dogs in sphinx poses.
The event stirred curiosity among locals, with some speculating about its purpose on social media. “They said it was for a commercial but it seems like it’s for the closing concert that will be a send-off to the next host,” noted one Reddit user. “Apparently, it’s not open to the public, so I’m curious who got invited.”
Others commented on the set-up process, observing that the event involved a “bussed-in crowd of extras,” with multiple takes and crowd hype-ups. “It sounds like a huge crowd, but it’s only hundreds,” another Redditor shared.
An anonymous source confirmed to the Post that the filming was indeed for the Olympic closing ceremonies.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson, currently in Paris as part of a delegation, urged residents to tune in. “Make sure you check out the #Paris2024 #Olympics closing ceremony,” Richardson posted on X.
With less than four years remaining until Los Angeles hosts the Olympics for the third time, and the first time for the Paralympics, excitement is building for what promises to be a landmark event in the city’s history.