14 Must-See Skateboarding Competitions Around the World

Skateboarding competitions have evolved beyond sporting events, capturing the essence of youth culture, athleticism, and creativity. During skateboard competitions in 2024, worldwide skateboarders can showcase their skills, innovation, and passion for the sport.

Skateboarding continues to grow in popularity, making these skate competitions a way for participants and fans to demonstrate their prowess while building community and camaraderie. Each skateboarding event contributes substantially to the global tapestry of skateboarding culture, from the high-stakes atmosphere of the X Games to the cultural festivities surrounding the Copenhagen Open.

Key takeaways

Skateboarding competitions offer:

Global Community Building: Skateboarding competitions foster strong connections among participants and fans worldwide, enhancing a sense of community and friendship.

Cultural Impact: These events are more than just sports; they are influential cultural festivals that showcase the sport’s creativity and appeal to youth.

Economic Contribution: Competitions offer significant economic benefits by providing sponsorship opportunities and helping athletes build their careers.

Environmental Advocacy: Some competitions, such as the Street League Skateboarding (SLS), promote sustainability through initiatives like the Green Skatepark Initiative.

Check out these 14 must-see international skateboarding competitions in 2024 around the world, which showcase the sport’s diversity and vibrancy.

1. X Games

Many extreme sports events, including the X Games, are considered among the most prestigious. In this annual competition, skateboarding, BMX, and motocross athletes from across the globe compete in various disciplines for acclaim and medals. These disciplines include street, vert, and big air, with athletes worldwide competing for the top spot.

The X Games event is a huge draw for spectators and is often televised. Winners receive cash prizes and recognition for their efforts. The competition helps to promote skateboarding and is a highlight of the year for athletes and fans. The X Games has become an enormous event, with millions of dollars in prize money and international recognition. It is one of the most successful sporting events in the world.

When it starts: The event usually begins in late July.
When it ends: It goes on for four exciting days.
Where it’s held: The location has changed, but it has been in places like Minneapolis in the USA and Oslo in Norway. This shows it’s a worldwide event.
More info: A lot more than just a sporting competition, the X Games are like a big festival that takes place every year. Music, art, and fun activities are all available for the whole family to enjoy. To win the gold medal, the athletes compete against one another with new and amazing tricks, trying to outdo one another. These incredible performances can be viewed by millions of people all over the globe because the event is shown on TV all around the world.

2. Street League Skateboarding (SLS)

In the skateboarding world, the Professional Skateboarding League Series (SLS) is a street skateboarding competition series. Initiated by professional skateboarder Rob Dyrdek, SLS brings together the world’s best street skaters to compete in a unique, instant-scoring format that rewards every trick performed. SLS also promotes environmental responsibility through its “Green Skatepark Initiative.”

This initiative encourages skateboarders to build and maintain skateparks in their local communities. SLS also donates a portion of its proceeds to environmental charities. SLS is committed to giving back to the skateboarding community and to helping protect our environment. By encouraging skateboarders to build and maintain skateparks, SLS is promoting a sustainable future for skateboarding.

When it starts: Dates can vary, but SLS skate events are typically spread throughout the year.
When it ends: Each event lasts for a couple of days, with the series culminating in a championship event towards the end of the year.
Where it’s held: SLS competitions are held in different cities around the world, from Los Angeles in the USA to Barcelona in Spain, highlighting their international appeal.
More info: SLS is known for its exciting format, in which skaters are scored immediately after their performance, adding an element of real-time excitement to the competition, which makes it the most exciting competition out there. The goal is not only to win but to push the envelope of street skateboarding to the limits. This allows audiences around the world to be able to follow the action live as well as watch broadcasts from around the world.

3. Vans Park Series (VPS)

The Vans Park Series (VPS) is a skating competition where skateboarders compete on park terrain in an exciting blend of style, flow, speed, and aerial tricks. It has become a platform for showcasing the world’s best skateboarders in park terrain, and as a result, skatepark-style competitions have become extremely popular in recent years. VPS skateboard events are often held with major concerts and music festivals, providing a unique platform for skaters to showcase their skills while engaging with a larger audience.

Additionally, VPS events feature cash prizes and sponsorships, allowing skaters to gain recognition and make a living from their skates. VPS events are also a great way to promote the sport, allowing skaters to share their passion for it with the public. VPS events are also a great way to support local skateparks, as they help to bring attention to the skatepark and its skaters.

When it starts: The series generally begins in the spring, with events spread across the year.
When it ends: It wraps up with a final championship event in the fall.
Where it’s held: VPS events are hosted in various countries, including the USA, Brazil, and Australia, showing it’s a global competition.
More info: The Vans Park Series is a high-energy event known for its unique community vibe, bringing together fans and skaters to celebrate the best parks in the world. The competitors aim to impress with their skill and creativity in the park, pushing the sport to new levels of innovation and creativity. Streaming of the series is also available online, allowing skateboarding enthusiasts worldwide to tune in and watch the action unfold as it happens.

4. Dew Tour

Dew Tour is an international skating competition and extreme sports event that combines skateboarding’s competitive experience with extreme sports festival experience. The competition features street skating and vert skateboarding disciplines and attracts top skateboarders worldwide who compete in individual and team events. The event includes various activities, such as free concerts, parties, and autograph signings.

The event is a great way to experience the culture and community of skateboarding. Additionally, the event allows skateboarding companies to showcase their products. It also allows fans to interact with their favorite skaters. Event participants can also purchase items related to skateboarding, such as apparel, accessories, and boards. The event is also a great way to network with other skaters and professionals in the industry.

When it starts: The tour typically kicks off in the summer, around June.
When it ends: Each event lasts a few days, with the tour concluding after its final stop.
Where it’s held: The Dew Tour takes place in various locations, primarily in the United States, such as Long Beach, California, and Des Moines, Iowa, showcasing its appeal across the country.
More info: Along with skateboarding, there will be music, art, and technology exhibitions that complement the high-flying skate action of the Dew Tour, making it more than just a skateboarding event. From hardcore skateboarding enthusiasts to casual observers, this event is designed to celebrate the culture of skateboarding in a way that appeals to everyone. There is an intense level of competition, with skaters pushing the envelope in terms of creativity and skill, as well as the competition being broadcast online and on television to an audience worldwide.

5. Tokyo 2020 Olympics Skateboarding

After being introduced to the world for the first time at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, skateboarding has gained unprecedented international recognition, with the sport being named one of the most popular sports in the world. It was the first time skateboarding was featured globally, as athletes from street and park categories fought fiercely for gold. It started a pivotal chapter in skateboarding’s journey, showcasing the sport’s dynamics and appeal to a worldwide audience to highlight its dynamism and appeal. It was an essential moment for skateboarding, as it represented a milestone in its journey to gain recognition and acceptance from a global audience.

It also highlighted its potential as a competitive sport, with athletes from different backgrounds coming together to compete on an equal footing. Skateboarding’s inclusion in the Olympics has significantly impacted its popularity, catapulting it into the mainstream and attracting a new audience. The exposure and recognition from being featured in such a globally renowned event has sparked a surge of interest in the sport, inspiring more people to take skateboarding and further solidifying its position as a beloved and respected athletic endeavor.

When it starts: The skateboarding events at the Olympics are held over a few days, typically in the first week of the Olympic Games.
When it ends: The events conclude within the Olympic schedule, usually wrapping up before the second week of the Games begins.
Where it’s held: After the 2020 debut in Tokyo, Japan, the famous skateboarding events will move to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, continuing the sport’s presence on this prestigious platform.
More info: Skateboarding’s inclusion in the Tokyo Olympics highlighted its global popularity and cultural significance. Continuing skateboarding’s inclusion in the 2024 Paris Olympics follows its provisional approval, reaffirming the sport’s growing stature and the Olympic Committee’s commitment to embracing modern, youth-oriented disciplines. As a result, skateboarding is celebrated for its athletic prowess and creativity and encouraged to grow across continents, ensuring its vibrant future.

6. World Skateboarding Championship

A world skateboarding championship is a premier event that plays a crucial role in determining the world champions in park and street skateboarding disciplines. The World Skateboarding Championship is organized by World Skate, the world governing body for skateboarding and roller sports. The world championship winner is awarded the World Champion Cup and is presented with a trophy and prize money. The event is held annually in different cities around the world.

The event attracts top professional skateboarders from all over the world. It is also an excellent opportunity for amateur skateboarders to showcase their skills and gain recognition. The World Championship also attracts a large crowd of spectators, who come to watch the event and enjoy the atmosphere. The event has become a significant highlight of the skateboarding calendar. It is also an essential showcase of the sport and part of the skateboarding culture. The event has become a substantial source of income for the industry, with prize money and sponsorships contributing to the economic health of the sport.

When it starts: The championship usually takes place in the fall, although specific dates can vary.
When it ends: It spans several days, concluding with the crowning of the world champions.
Where it’s held: The location changes annually, reflecting its global nature, with previous championships held in cities like São Paulo, Brazil, and Nanjing, China.
More info: A crucial event for professional skateboarders, the World Skateboarding Championship offers significant points towards Olympic qualification. Competitors perform breathtaking tricks and routines in pursuit of the title at the highest level. Aside from highlighting skateboarding’s competitive spirit, this event also showcases its cultural diversity, bringing together fans worldwide. Skateboarding’s pinnacle competition and talent are broadcast internationally, allowing a worldwide audience to watch.

7. Tampa Pro

The Tampa Pro is a skateboarding competition at the Skatepark of Tampa in Florida. It is one of the most prestigious and enduring skating competitions in the skateboarding scene. The competition offers significant prize money and industry recognition in addition to attracting professional skateboarders worldwide to compete in street skateboarding. The event has a history of creating some of the most iconic skateboarding tricks and stunts and is known for its unique atmosphere.

It has become an integral part of the skateboarding world and is widely considered the pinnacle of the sport. The competition also brings skateboarding to a broader audience, inspiring and motivating the next generation of skateboarders. It has also become a cultural and social phenomenon, with many fans gathering for the event and celebrating the sport of skateboarding.

When it starts: Tampa Pro usually takes place in March.
When it ends: The event runs over a weekend, from Friday to Sunday.
Where it’s held: It’s always at the Skatepark of Tampa, located in Tampa, Florida, USA.
More info: Tampa Pro is renowned for its intense competition and friendly atmosphere, which blends high-level skateboarding with its culture and community. A winning streak here can lead to significant sponsorship opportunities and sponsorships. Various contests, such as the Best Trick competition, are held during the event, adding to the excitement. The Tampa Pro attracts skateboarding fans and competitors alike because of its history, the quality of skateboarding it attracts, and its role in promoting street skateboarding worldwide.

8. Battle at the Berrics

An innovative competition focusing on flat-ground tricks, similar to the format of the game S.K.A.T.E, this competition pits skateboarders against each other in a head-to-head battle, showcasing incredible technical skills and creativity. Judges evaluate each trick based on difficulty, creativity, and execution. The competition is also live-streamed, allowing viewers worldwide to witness the amazing feats of skill and daring.

The competition has become increasingly popular recently, with people tuning in to see the tricks and vote on their favorites. It has become a significant part of the skateboarding culture, inspiring the next generation of skaters. The competition winner is awarded a large cash prize and the opportunity to compete in future competitions. The competition also gives back to the skateboarding community, with a portion of the proceeds going to charities and organizations supporting the sport.

When it starts: The competition dates can vary, but it typically takes place over several weeks, with different rounds leading up to the final.
When it ends: Since it’s spread out over weeks, the end date depends on the scheduling of matches, culminating in a final battle that decides the champion.
Where it’s held: The Berrics, a private indoor skatepark in Los Angeles, California, USA, is the event’s traditional venue.
More info: Fans love Battle at the Berrics because it showcases flat-ground skating’s precision and innovation in intense, one-on-one battles. In addition to being a competition, it showcases the endless possibilities within skateboarding, bringing together some of the world’s best skaters. Global audiences can follow the action online, with matches available on various platforms, allowing them to tune in and watch the action unfold.

9. Copenhagen Open

The Copenhagen Open has been known for its innovative and unconventional approach in the history of skateboarding competitions. It is held in several locations throughout Copenhagen, Denmark, and combines street skateboarding with a festival atmosphere to create an unforgettable experience for competitors and spectators. The Copenhagen Open is an event that brings together people worldwide to compete in various disciplines, from street skating to freestyle skating.

It also provides a platform to showcase skateboarding culture and talent. The tournament celebrates skateboarding and attracts some of the biggest names in skateboarding. It is an event to be noticed if you are a fan of skateboarding. The Copenhagen Open is an annual event and attracts skaters of all levels, from beginners to professionals. It is also a great way to meet like-minded people and learn more about the sport.

When it starts: Typically held in the summer, around July.
When it ends: The event lasts for about a week, moving from location to location within the city.
Where it’s held: Across various iconic and scenic spots in Copenhagen, Denmark, turning the city into a giant skate park.
More info: The Copenhagen Open’s open, roaming nature is what makes it unique. Skaters and fans explore the city’s culture and skateboarding spots together. Competitions of this type are known for their relaxed atmosphere, where competitors and festival-goers blur the lines, creating a sense of community. It’s not just about winning; it’s about celebrating skateboarding culture, innovation, and Copenhagen. Its unique blend of competitive action and cultural exploration draws a global audience, both in person and online.

10. Simple Session

Simple Session is one of Europe’s largest skateboarding and BMX competitions, held every year in Tallinn, Estonia. Each year, a new custom-designed course is created for the event, allowing athletes to showcase their street and park sports skills. The number of participants increases yearly, and the event attracts world-class athletes worldwide. Local volunteers organize it, an essential event in the Estonian skateboarding and BMX community.

The event has become a staple on the European skateboarding and BMX calendar and continues to grow in popularity. It has also become a platform to promote the sport and create new opportunities for the local skateboarding and BMX communities. The event has also become a hub for the local community, as skaters and BMX riders come together to celebrate their passion and share their skills. It has also created opportunities for local businesses, as the event attracts many visitors.

When it starts: This event usually occurs in early February.
When it ends: It’s a weekend-long spectacle, typically wrapping up after two days of intense competition.
Where it’s held: The heart of Tallinn, Estonia, becomes the stage for this grand event, drawing competitors and spectators from around the globe.
More info: Simple Session features innovative course designs that challenge participants to push their creative and technical boundaries. It combines skateboarding and BMX, creating a dynamic atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of extreme sports enthusiasts. Besides athletic displays, this event fosters a festival-like atmosphere with music, art, and entertainment, making it a cultural highlight. Simple Session annually attracts skateboarding and BMX fans from all over the world, not just for the competition but also for the camaraderie and celebration.

11. Bondi Bowl-A-Rama

Bowl-A-Rama is one of the world’s most prestigious bowl skateboarding competitions 2024. It is held every year in Bondiateach in Sydney, Australia. A world-class bowl skating event attracts top bowl skaters from around the world to compete in one of the most beautiful settings for a skateboarding event. The event is hosted by Bondi Skatepark and is organized by Skate Australia. The Bowl-A-Rama has hosted some of the biggest names in skateboarding, including legends such as Tony Hawk and Rodney Mullen.

It is also an excellent platform for up-and-coming skaters to showcase their skills. The event is held in Bondi, Australia, and has become an annual tradition for local skaters and fans. It is an essential event in the skateboarding calendar, and thousands of spectators attend it yearly. The Bowl-A-Rama is an iconic Australian event that skaters and fans love. It is an essential reminder of the sport’s rich history and is a celebration of its continuing evolution.

When it starts: It usually takes place in February, capitalizing on the Southern Hemisphere’s summer.
When it ends: The competition spans over a weekend, offering two days filled with thrilling skateboarding action.
Where it’s held: At the world-famous Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, making it one of the most picturesque skateboarding events globally.
More info: On one of the most renowned beaches in the world, Bowl-A-Rama is not just about the competition. The festival captures the essence of Australian skateboarding with its high-energy performances and laid-back atmosphere. Participants and spectators enjoy the top-notch skating, the community vibe, and the beautiful beachside setting. It attracts athletes and fans from all over the globe to experience the thrill of bowl skating in an unparalleled setting.

12. Super Crown World Championship

Taking place at the end of the Street League Skateboarding season, the Super Crown World Championship is a competition that brings together the best and brightest of the Street League Skateboarding competitors for a final battle for the ultimate title. This event showcases the best in the world of street skateboarding. The Super Crown World Championship is held every year in a different city.

The winner is crowned the “King of the Streets” and receives $100,000 in prize money. The event is also broadcast live on television and attended by thousands of people. There is fierce competition, and only the best riders can qualify for the showdown. The winner is declared by a panel of professional judges who evaluate their performance and skills. The competition’s winner is also awarded a trophy and the title of World Champion.

13. Vert Attack

Vert Attack is a vert skateboarding competition held in Malmö, Sweden. It’s known for its inclusive atmosphere, welcoming vert skaters of all ages and skill levels to compete, promoting the vert discipline and its community.

14. King of the Road

Sponsored by Thrasher magazine, King of the Road is a unique skateboarding competition that blends street skating with a scavenger hunt. Teams of skateboarders travel and complete various challenges, capturing the adventurous spirit of skateboarding.

Each of these competitions has contributed significantly to skateboarding’s growth and evolution, offering platforms for athletes to showcase their talents and for fans to celebrate the Culture and Community of Skateboarding.

Some Other Skateboarding Competitions 2024

In addition to the top 14 skateboarding competitions already mentioned, there are numerous other famous skateboarding events worldwide that contribute to the richness and diversity of the skateboarding culture. Here are more international skateboarding competitions in 2024, each with its unique flair and significance to the community:

Red Bull Hart Lines

Held in Detroit, Michigan, the Red Bull Hart Lines competition takes a unique approach by combining speed with technical skateboarding. Set up in Hart Plaza, the course includes a mix of street obstacles and ramps, challenging skaters to showcase their skills under pressure.

Volcom Pipe Pro Skate

An extension of the famous surfing contest, the Volcom Pipe Pro Skate brings the competition to the skatepark, featuring top skateboarders from around the world. The event is known for its relaxed atmosphere, blending the spirit of skateboarding with the surf culture.

Jackalope Action Sports Festival

Held in Montreal, Canada, the Jackalope Action Sports Festival is the largest event of its kind in Canada, featuring skateboarding alongside other action sports. The festival includes competitions in vert, street, and minicamp disciplines, drawing a diverse group of athletes.

The Berrics Run & Gun

This unique competition format challenges skateboarders to create the best single run, combining technical tricks and flow on a course within a one-minute timeframe. It’s a test of creativity, skill, and endurance, with videos of runs submitted for judging and public voting.

Kimberley Diamond Cup

Hosted in Kimberley, South Africa, the Kimberley Diamond Cup is known for its substantial prize purse and attracts top talent from around the globe. The competition features street, vert, and mini-mega ramp disciplines, promoting skateboarding growth on the African continent.

Mystic Sk8 Cup

Part of the World Cup Skateboarding circuit, the Mystic Sk8 Cup is held in Prague, Czech Republic. This long-standing event features street and bowl competitions, bringing together international talent in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Maloof Money Cup

Founded by the Maloof family, the Maloof Money Cup once offered one of the largest prize purses in skateboarding. The competition included street and vert skateboarding and was known for its high-caliber courses and top-notch competitor lineup.

Damn Am

The Damn Am is a global amateur skateboarding competition series that serves as a stepping stone for amateurs looking to turn professional. Organized by Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT), it has stops around the world and is crucial for showcasing up-and-coming talent.

Exposure Skate

Exposure Skate is the world’s largest women’s skateboarding event, focusing on empowering female skateboarders through competition. It includes street, vert, and bowl disciplines, promoting gender equality and growth in women’s skateboarding.

Grind for Life Series

The Grind for Life Series is an all-ages skateboarding contest series in the United States that benefits the Grind for Life organization, a charity supporting cancer patients. The series includes street and bowl competitions, fostering a sense of community and philanthropy within the skateboarding world.

Clash at Clairemont

A charity event in San Diego, California, the Clash at Clairemont showcases top skateboarders in a family-friendly atmosphere. The event raises funds for cancer research and features competitions, demos, and autograph signings.

These additional skateboarding competitions highlight the sport’s global appeal and the diversity of events catering to various styles and skill levels. From high-stakes professional contests to community-driven festivals and charity events, the skateboarding competition scene is vibrant and inclusive, fostering growth and camaraderie within the skateboarding community.

How to Find Information on Upcoming Skateboarding Competitions:

Official Websites and social media: Most skateboarding competitions have official websites and active social media profiles. The best way to get accurate and up-to-date information is to check these platforms regularly.
World Skate: As the governing body for skateboarding, World Skate’s official website provides updates on world championships and Olympic skateboarding qualifications and events.
Street League Skateboarding (SLS): For street skateboarding enthusiasts, the SLS website and social media channels are excellent resources for competition schedules and updates.
Vans Park Series: For those interested in park skateboarding, the Vans Park Series official website is a go-to for event announcements and updates.
X Games: The X Games website and ESPN (the broadcaster for the X Games) provide schedules, athlete lineups, and event details for one of the most prestigious extreme sports competitions.
Skateboarding Magazines and News Outlets: Publications like Thrasher, Transworld Skateboarding, and The Berrics offer news, updates, and features on skateboarding competitions around the world.
Local Skate Shops and Communities: Local skate shops and community boards often have information on regional and local competitions. These can be great opportunities for amateur skaters to get involved in the competition scene.

For the most accurate and recent information, please check the official sources close to your inquiry date. Engaging with the skateboarding community through forums and social media can also provide insights and updates on events not widely advertised or covered by mainstream sports media.

Final thoughts about skateboarding competitions

Skateboarding competitions are a vibrant and essential part of the skateboarding community. They showcase the incredible talent, creativity, and dedication of skateboarders worldwide. From prestigious international events like the X Games and professional Skateboarding Street Leagues to local contests that foster emerging talent, these competitions celebrate the culture, diversity, and spirit of skateboarding.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro, an aspiring amateur, or a fan of the sport, skateboarding competitions offer something for everyone. They unite the global skateboarding community and push the boundaries of what’s possible on a skateboard. As the sport continues to evolve and gain recognition, the future of skateboarding competitions looks brighter than ever, promising more thrilling moments, groundbreaking achievements, and a deeper connection within the skateboarding community.

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