Go Skateboarding Day: Everything to Know (2026)
Every June 21, skaters around the world head out together to celebrate. Here's how Go Skateboarding Day began and how to take part.
Quick Facts
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| Date | June 21, every year |
| Created | 2003; first events held June 21, 2004 |
| Timing | Around the Northern Hemisphere summer solstice, one of the longest days of the year |
| Created by | International Association of Skateboard Companies (IASC) |
| Purpose | Make skateboarding more accessible and get skaters riding together |
| Where | Events in cities around the world |
How It Started
The International Association of Skateboard Companies (IASC) created Go Skateboarding Day in 2003 to help make skateboarding more accessible through events in cities around the world. The first events, on June 21, 2004, were simple skate sessions and barbecues in Southern California. The day grew quickly: by 2006, more than 350 events took place in 32 countries. The IASC sums up the mission simply: have fun, go skateboarding.
Why June 21?
June 21 falls around the Northern Hemisphere's summer solstice, so skaters get some of the longest daylight hours of the year. It's also the start of summer break in many places, which helps parks and streets fill with skaters of every age.
What It Means to Skaters
Go Skateboarding Day isn't a contest. There are no entry fees, judges or skill requirements, and every style counts: street, park, cruising, longboarding and bowl riding. Events are organized locally by shops, brands, skateparks and skaters themselves, so each city's version looks different. Some use the day to raise awareness about skatepark access or to raise money for local projects.
Around the World
Events range from city street skates and park jams to demos and beach cruises. Nonprofits have joined in too: Skateistan, which runs skate schools for young people, has held Go Skateboarding Day celebrations in Afghanistan since 2009.
What Happens on the Day
- Group street skates through cities.
- Skatepark jams and best-trick contests.
- Shop events with giveaways and demos.
- Community events like beginner sessions and park cleanups.
Ways to Celebrate
- Check local skate shops and parks for organized events.
- Skate with friends, or invite someone new to try.
- Teach a beginner the basics. See learn how to skateboard.
- Support your local skate shop.
- Try a new spot or trick. See where to skateboard.
- Film a session and share it.
Organize Your Own Session
- Pick a spot where skating is allowed, such as a skatepark or a permitted plaza.
- Get permission if you're using private property or need a permit for a group ride.
- Invite every level, from first-timers to experienced skaters.
- Plan for safety: helmets, a first aid kit and water.
- Add something fun, like a best-trick jam, a slow-push race or a beginner corner.
- Leave the spot cleaner than you found it.
Gear Up for the Day
Krown Rookie Complete
A beginner-oriented complete skateboard for a friend who wants to try.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Go Skateboarding Day?
June 21 every year.
Who started Go Skateboarding Day?
The International Association of Skateboard Companies (IASC) created it in 2003.
What happens on Go Skateboarding Day?
Skaters gather for group sessions, street skates, contests and events at parks and shops around the world.
Is Go Skateboarding Day a holiday?
No, it's an annual celebration, not an official public holiday.
How can I celebrate?
Join a local event, skate with friends, take someone new skating or support your local skate shop.