For Immediate Release:
Montréal/Ventura (May 22, 2025) – The Jackalope Block Party, an internationally acclaimed action sports event, is headed to the West Coast for the first time. From May 1 to 3, 2026, downtown Ventura will be transformed into a teeming hub of high-octane excitement as JACKALOPE BLOCK PARTY VENTURA combines the thrill of skateboarding with Ventura’s unique local culture.
JACKALOPE BLOCK PARTY VENTURA is a compact, local and high energy version of the Jackalope Festival, designed as a grassroots, community-driven entry point for skateboarders looking to break into the larger scene. The first step on the road to the major Jackalope Festival series is held in Virginia Beach, Mississauga (Canada) and Montréal (Canada).
Rooted in action sports culture and community, Jackalope is a free and highly accessible event open to all. Originating in Montréal, Québec, Canada, the festival celebrates the energy and creativity of the skateboarding world while integrating the unique spirit of every host city.
“We couldn’t think of a better place to launch this exciting new chapter of our journey across America. Bringing the Block Party to the West Coast completes our coast-to-coast vision and reflects our commitment to uplifting the community that embodies creativity and raw passion,” said Micah Desforges, founder and CEO of Tribu Experientiel.
The Jackalope Block Party Ventura will showcase:
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Open skateboarding competitions on the exclusive Vert ramp* - open to all skill levels, these competitions invite amateur and pro-skateboarders to register and compete in front of a live crowd and judges for a chance to win $20 000 in total prizes. The top male and female winners will receive an all expenses paid trip to Jackalope Virginia Beach 2026. Registration will be open in spring 2026 and everybody is welcome to sign up.
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Demos by local and world-class skateboarders
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Shredder Passes available to purchase, giving local skaters an exclusive session on the Vert ramp
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Live DJ sets
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Food and drinks from nearby restaurants and bars. Plus: pop-up shops, a VIP section, and exclusive experiences for attendees to enjoy throughout the day
The event is expected to draw 15,000 attendees, offering a boost to Ventura’s downtown, restaurants and businesses.
“Building off the incredible momentum of action sports in our community – from the electric energy of our recent celebrations to the highly anticipated opening of the new skatepark this summer – it feels like the perfect time to announce that the Jackalope Block Party is coming to Ventura in 2026,” said Marlyss Auster, Visit Ventura President and CEO. “The last two years have shown what’s possible when our community comes together around movement and culture. We’re honored to welcome Jackalope and look forward to making history right here in our Ventura.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome Jackalope to Ventura for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of action sports, creativity and community,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “Ventura’s vibrant culture and coastal energy make it a perfect backdrop for the Jackalope Block Party. We’re proud to host an event that inspires the next generation of athletes and brings people together through movement, music and shared experiences.”
From local to international: The mission picks up speed
With the festival and Block Party, JACKALOPE is stepping up its activities in iconic urban locations skateparks to find raw talent, mobilize communities, and boost local economies. The aim is to offer athletes a platform for exceptional visibility that levers them from regional recognition to international renown. Since being founded in 2012 in Montréal, JACKALOPE has attracted thousands of athletes from all over the world, such as Tony Hawk, Bob Burnquist, Elliot Sloan, Tom Schaar, Leticia Bufoni, TJ Rogers, Alannah Yip and Annie Guglia, to name but a few.
JACKALOPE FESTIVALS:
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Virginia Beach, USA – May 30 to June 1 (Oceanfront)
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Mississauga, Ontario (Canada) – July 11 to 13 (Celebration Square & Square One Shopping Centre)
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Montréal, Québec (Canada) – September 12 to 14 (Old Port of Montréal)
JACKALOPE BLOCK PARTY: Newcastle, AUS – November 14 and 15 (South Newcastle skatepark) and Ventura USA - May 1 to 3, 2026.
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