The Messi Experience in LA
We had the opportunity to attend The Messi Experience, and let me just say—it was nothing short of magical. As a family who lives and breathes fútbol, this event was an unforgettable celebration of the sport and one of its greatest icons.
From the vibrant artwork honoring Messi’s legacy to the immersive activities that brought his journey to life, every detail reminded us why soccer is more than just a game—it’s a passion that unites us. The energy was electric, and seeing my family so immersed in the experience made it even more special.
Of course, I had to show up in style, rocking the iconic Argentina jersey with pride. It was a small but meaningful way to honor the GOAT himself and share in the joy of the event.
LAFC Game Day Fun with the Family
We were invited by LAFC to a game day experience this past weekend at BMO Stadium, and let me tell you, it was an experience we won’t forget anytime soon!
But this wasn’t just any game day—we had a field-level experience during warmups, and the kids (okay, us too!) were beyond excited to get up close to the players. The highlight? High-fiving Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris as they walked past us. Seeing these legends of the game in person was absolutely surreal, and it’s a moment the kids will be talking about for years to come.
Level Up: A Destination for Fun
As if field-level access wasn’t enough, we also got to explore the brand-new Level Up by Bandai Namco arcade at The Fields LA food hall. Located on the second level, Level Up is an interactive arcade and events destination that’s perfect for families and fans alike.
The space is packed with PAC-MAN-themed arcade games, soccer-inspired games, and Gashapon® collectible toy machines. The mix of free and pay-to-play games makes it accessible for everyone, and the energy in the arcade is just as exciting as being in the stands.
Food + Fun = The Perfect Combo
One of the best parts of Level Up is that you can grab food from The Fields LA food hall and bring it upstairs to enjoy while the kids play. Feel free to choose from some of L.A.’s most iconic eats, including Amboy Burgers, TacosWay, and Triple Beam Pizza. The food was amazing (the Ramyun Café is on my list for next time!), and having so many options made it easy to keep everyone happy.
For the adults, there’s even a full-service bar at Level Up, making it the perfect spot to relax while keeping an eye on the little ones. Whether you’re celebrating a big LAFC win or just taking a break from the excitement, it’s a fantastic addition to the game day experience.
Making Memories on and off the Field
Watching our kids light up at Level Up and hearing them cheer their hearts out for LAFC reminded me why I love sharing these experiences as a family. It’s not just about the game—it’s about the connection, the culture, and the memories we create together.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re heading to an LAFC match or event at BMO Stadium, don’t miss out on Level Up by Bandai Namco. Open during LAFC matches, concerts, and other Exposition Park events, this interactive arcade is a must-visit for families and fans. You can access it through the north and south main entrances of The Fields LA food hall.
Trust me, this combination of fútbol, food, and fun is something your whole family will love. Have you been to Level Up or had a field-level experience at a game? Share your favorite game day memories in the comments—I’d love to hear them!
Dia De Los Muertos
Every year, as October turns to November, my heart feels a little fuller as we prepare to celebrate Día de los Muertos, a tradition that is so deeply rooted in my Mexican culture. It's becoming tradition to visit Sanchez Family Produce in Santa Clarita to pick up the most vibrant marigolds for our altar.
Family-owned and full of heart, their stand is a local gem & vibrant hub of fresh produce and seasonal flowers, including the stunning marigolds (cempasúchil) that are so symbolic of Día de los Muertos.
Marigolds, with their bright orange and yellow hues, are believed to guide the spirits of our loved ones back to us during this special time. And seeing my kids marvel at these beautiful flowers was a reminder of how powerful it is to connect with our traditions in tangible ways.
Celebrating Culture with the Kids
One of my biggest joys as a mom is sharing my culture with my children. Día de los Muertos is so much more than just setting up an altar or painting your face—it’s about storytelling, honoring our ancestors, and keeping their memory alive.
At Sanchez Family Produce, we talked about the significance of the marigolds, how their scent and color guide our loved ones, and why it’s important to honor those who came before us. Watching my kids help pick out the flowers, asking questions, and getting excited about building our ofrenda (altar) filled me with so much pride.
As moms, it’s our job to pass down these traditions, not just as rituals but as lessons about love, respect, and connection. These moments teach our kids where they come from and remind them to celebrate their roots.
Celebrating Día de los Muertos is more than just a tradition—it’s a way to honor who we are and where we come from. And when we include our kids in these moments, we’re planting the seeds for the next generation to carry these traditions forward.
Why Supporting Local Matters
What made this trip even more special was knowing we were supporting a local family business like Sanchez Family Produce. In a world that moves so fast, there’s something grounding about connecting with a place that values community and tradition as much as you do.
If you’re in the Santa Clarita area, I highly recommend visiting Sanchez Family Produce for your marigolds or any seasonal produce. It’s a beautiful way to support local and connect with the heart of our community during this special season. You can find them on Instagram for updates on what’s in stock and where to find them.
What traditions are you sharing with your family this Día de los Muertos? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re celebrating!