In nearly triple-digit temperatures, thousands gathered Thursday afternoon on Alamitos Beach for the NFL’s kickoff party, which featured a free headlining concert from Latin music sensation J Balvin.

The NFL Kickoff Experience celebrated the beginning of the 2022 NFL season, which started Thursday evening with the defending Super Bowl champion LA Rams taking on the Buffalo Bills at SoFi Stadium.

Balvin, who has been dubbed the “Prince of Reggaeton” in the music industry, electrified the crowd with a performance of some of his most famous hits. Not even the scorching weather could keep adoring fans from crowding into each other near the main stage, dancing and belting out lyrics at the top of their lungs.

Also performing at the event was Grammy-nominated DJ and producer TOKiMONSTA, who at one point brought other musical artists onstage, including Atlanta Hip Hop duo EARTHGANG.

In addition to musical performances, the NFL Kickoff Experience gave attendees the opportunity to participate in activities like playing the new Madden NFL video game, running 40-yard dashes through the sand, walking through a gallery of Super Bowl rings and getting autographs from professional players.

J Balvin performs with a backup dancer at the NFL Kickoff Experience in Long Beach Thursday, Sept. 8. Photo by Fernando Haro.
J Balvin fans get ready to record his entrance at the NFL Kickoff Experience in Long Beach Thursday, Sept. 8. Photo by Fernando Haro.
J Balvin thanks the crowd during the NFL Kickoff Experience in Long Beach Thursday, Sept. 8. Photo by Fernando Haro.

Things to do in Long Beach this weekend including… Sumo and Hatch chiles