The Californer - Plaza México Scores Big With 'Golazo Fests' Community, Culture & Unmatched Vibes

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LOS ANGELES - Californer -- laza México kicked off the world's biggest soccer tournament last month by hosting three major free community events and special celebrations.

Plaza México hosted two 'Golazo Fests' on Thursday, June 11, and Sunday, July 5, along with a 'Golazo Bandorazo' on Wednesday, June 24. The free events included live music, merch, food, games, and activities with various partners.

Plaza México's 'Golazo Fest' welcomed around 2,000 passionate fans, who rallied behind México in its first match against South Africa, filling the area near the El Ángel monument with excitement as they watched the game on the giant live screen. In the 'Golazo Bandorazo', México's second match against Czechia, around 3,000 fans attended the watch party, while around 4,000 fans attended the final match against England.

Altogether, Plaza México drew more than 9,000 passionate fans across all three watch parties, where community, culture, and vibe converged.

Plaza México's World Cup watch parties drew enthusiastic crowds; fans lined up early to secure front-row seats and join in the fun with special guests Mexican radio broadcaster Eddie "Piolín" Sotelo, Pato Merlin, and TikTok Influencer Benji—before enjoying an up-close view of the match.

Lastly, at the grand opening of BW Sports & Hobbies, fans had the opportunity to meet Mexican Soccer Legend Luis Hernández, known as "El Matador," on Friday, June 5. The meet and greet allowed fans to take photographs, collect autographs and interact with one of México's most beloved soccer legends.

El Matador, who scored four goals in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and 35 goals in his entire career, shared his excitement and gratitude with ABC 7 News. "For Los Angeles—and for all the fans, enthusiasts, and families living there—hosting a World Cup is a unique experience that few countries get to have. I believe it is a privilege to have the opportunity to host another World Cup," said Hernández.

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Plaza Mexico would like to thank many of the 'mercado' tenants for their support, as well as partners: Adrianas Insurance, Boost Mobile, BW Sports & Hobbies, Curacao, Entravision, El Clasificado, Fox Deportes, Fundacion Jalisco, LA Care, Mega 96.3, Michelob Ultra, Milagros de México, MoneyGram, Power106, Rize Credit Union, and Telemundo 52.

Throughout 2026, Plaza Mexico will be your go-to spot for programming a variety of events—from lively festivals and artisan markets to kids' activities, live music and community celebrations.

ABOUT PLAZA MEXICO

Located at 3100 E. Imperial Hwy in the emergent city of Lynwood California, only 14 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, Plaza Mexico is a unique 420,000 square foot retail, food, and office space blended together with Mexican culture to create an Hispanic wonderland of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Plaza Mexico is bounded by Imperial Highway, Long Beach Boulevard, State Street, and the 105 Freeway, so no matter where you live you are never too far from this little piece of Mexico in Southern California.

Plaza México stands as a cultural landmark in Lynwood, California, celebrating the beauty, history, and spirit of Mexico. Inspired by traditional Mexican architecture and iconic landmarks, the plaza was designed to transport visitors into the heart of Mexico through its vibrant atmosphere, handcrafted details, and authentic sense of community.

More than a shopping destination, Plaza México is a place where culture, commerce, and connection thrive. The plaza hosts a wide variety of events year-round — from traditional celebrations like Día de los Muertos and Fiestas Patrias to live music, artisan markets, and family festivals that bring people together from across Southern California.

Visitors can stroll through beautifully designed spaces that feature replicas of Mexico's most renowned monuments, including El Ángel de la Independencia, Kiosko de San Miguel de Allende, and Aztec Calendar. Each landmark offers a glimpse into Mexico's rich cultural heritage and provides a unique opportunity for guests to embark on a self-guided cultural tour right here in Lynwood.

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Whether you're visiting for shopping, dining, entertainment, or simply to connect with the vibrant Mexican culture, Plaza México invites you to experience a piece of Mexico — without leaving California.

Plaza Mexico is located at:

Plaza Mexico 3100 E Imperial Hwy, Lynwood, CA 90262 Entrance + Parking: free, family-friendly, pet friendly all are welcome. Bring your lawn chairs.

https://www.plazamexico.com/

Media Highlights:

KTLA

https://youtu.be/698LCWt5HKc

Univision 34

https://youtu.be/wZFuK7QeHz0

Telemundo Al Rojo Vivo

https://youtu.be/8bYl_TuYeC8

Fox11

https://youtu.be/sT4rPnv1LsA

KCAL/CBSLA

https://youtu.be/cck9LS-kZGM

CBSLA

https://youtu.be/-Fs9__ICiu8

ABC7

https://youtu.be/U-qNTAgcJlc

Fox Deportes

https://youtu.be/iyWah3Lx3k4

ABC7 Luis Hernández

https://youtu.be/Kh2pcYHauv8

VIDEO:

Golazo Fest Return Drone Footage

https://youtu.be/CS5fy-ZILZI

Golazo Fest

https://youtu.be/o1pGOx71HkY