Concrete & Salt Air: The 4th Annual Swirl Surfskate Fest Returns to Venice This Saturday

CAMPBELL WELLMAN SWIRL FEST VENICE SKATE FESTIVAL

If there is one neighborhood on the Westside that truly understands the seamless transition between the ocean waves and the pavement, it’s Venice Beach. On Saturday, July 25, 2026, the absolute birthplace of surfskate culture is shutting down the streets for a massive, all-day party: the 4th Annual Swirl Surfskate Fest.

Hosted by @grlswirl—one of the world's largest women-founded, grassroots skate collectives—and presented by Hydro Flask, this completely free festival takes over the heart of Venice right under the iconic Venice Sign on Windward Avenue.

Whether you are a seasoned bowl rider, a longboard enthusiast, or simply love the great, creative energy of coastal LA, this is where you want to be this weekend.

Your All-Day Schedule: From Ocean Swells to Street Beats

The festival spans from 8:00 AM until late into the evening, transforming Windward Avenue and the beach front into an interactive, multi-stage block party. Here is how the day unfolds:

  • 8:00 AM – Morning Paddle Out: Kick off the day at the water’s edge. Grab your surfboard and meet the crew north of Lifeguard Tower 26 (just at the Santa Monica/Venice border). Coffee and pastries are provided for all participants as hundreds paddle out together in a celebration of community and coastal heritage.

  • Public Pop-Up Skateparks (All Day): Carver Skate is erecting a full custom pop-up skatepark right on the asphalt for the public to ride all day long. Bring your board, helmet, and enthusiasm—all skill levels are welcome!

  • 1:00 PM – Surfskate Competition & Vendor Market: Watch top progression riders carve up a one-of-a-kind ramp setup built by Carver. The competition features legendary Dogtown-era judges, major prizes, and even the coveted "World's Okayest Skater" award. While watching the comp, browse the local artisan market featuring art booths, food vendors, and a Carver board-tuning station.

  • Evening Concert (Under the Venice Sign): As the sun sets, Windward Avenue closes down entirely for a massive street concert featuring live music, including a special set by guitar phenom Grace Bowers, leading up to a surprise headlining artist!

  • Late Night After Party: The energy shifts directly to the historic Townhouse Venice for an official dance party to wrap up the night.

Grassroots Roots & The Swirl Skate Foundation

While Swirl Fest draws thousands of attendees, it remains fundamentally a grassroots labor of love. Organized by GRLSWIRL to honor the living legends of Dogtown and empower a new, diverse generation of skaters, the festival is completely free to attend.

To help keep community programming alive, organizers encourage a $7 suggested donation when you RSVP. 100% of these donations go directly to the Swirl Skate Foundation, supporting global skate mentorship programs, youth outreach, and inclusive community events year-round.

The Campbell Wellman Take

 

GRLSWIRL and Swirl Fest embody the authentic, creative soul of Venice. Events like this remind us why coastal Westside real estate is so uniquely special. It’s not just about the incredible homes—it’s about the culture, the walkability, and the fun that happens when neighbors close down the street to skate, dance to live music, and support the local community. If you're out and about this Saturday, pop over to Windward Ave, support the local vendors, and take in this Venice summer event.