The Vans U.S. Open of Surfing returns to Orange County Saturday after a two-year hiatus.
The event, which runs from July 30 to August 7 in Huntington Beach, features surf, skateboarding and BMX competitions as the largest action sports event of the year, according to officials.
The theme of this year’s competition and festivities is sustainability with a focus on environmental responsibility. Multiple brands and nonprofits will also be on-site for various activations and booths including Hydro Flask and the Orange County Coastkeeper.
Past chief executive of Vans Steve Van Doren will also be in attendance, scheduled to be grilling free lunch for fans every day of the competition.
Costa Mesa-based retailer Vans Inc. has been the title sponsor of the event and partner to owner and operator IMG since 2013. The event is overseen by the World Surf League.
This year’s U.S. Open is anticipating over 500,000 attendees, IMG Vice President Jennifer Lau told the Business Journal. “What sets us apart from other sports events is that it’s not just about watching the athletes but participating in the spirit of the U.S. Open festival.”
