Intro

It’s hard to imagine the sun ever setting on California summers, but with fall officially beginning on September 22, the surf capital of the world is determined to end its summer season with a bang! Local beachgoers can expect the next few weekends to be filled with surfing, music, fun, and sun… so don’t forget the sunscreen!

 The US Open of Surfing Is Back

Southern California residents have felt the absence of the annual US Open of Surfing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, by following strict state guidelines, the US Surf Open has gotten the green light to return this year during the week of September 20 – 26. Contestants and fans of the sport alike are ready to come together once again and close out the summer with members of the surfing community.

 In the past, the week-long event has had record-breaking numbers in attendance! With more than 500,000 people in attendance, the US Surf Open has played a key role in Orange County’s economy. The entire event brings about $21.5 million to the county’s economy; $16.4 million of which is spent just in Huntington Beach (Connelly, 2011). It’s clear as to why Huntington Beach business owners are happy to see the event’s much-awaited return.

 Along with vendors, surf events, and skate competitions, the week-long US Open of Surfing brings the annual Surfing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony- which will be held on Thursday, September 23 at 10:00 AM. The event attracts the best surfers from around the world to Downtown Huntington Beach, with their fan base following close behind.

The Pacific Airshow and Afterburner Music Festival

The Pacific Airshow returns to Huntington Beach during the weekend of October 1st – 3rd and attendees are promised a full-throttle experience which will include helicopters, high-performance jets, and even jetpacks! The Pacific Airshow is taking place from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM and is free to the public. It is sure to be a memorable experience for the entire family, so we recommend planning to get there early to secure a parking spot!

 The fun doesn’t end there! The Afterburner 2-night music festival marks the return of live music right on the sand of Huntington City Beach!  The music event will take place on October 1st & 2nd until 10:00 PM and will act as an afterparty to the Pacific Airshow taking place earlier on those days. Locals looking to attend the concert can still purchase their tickets on the Afterburner website, but they’ll have to be quick as tickets are sure to go fast!

Conclusion

 Whether you’re a fan of the sport, live music, or just looking for some last-minute summer fun, Huntington Beach is sure to have something for everyone!

 Let us know in the comments below if you’re heading to a summer closeout event at Huntington Beach!

References

Connelly, Laylan (July 28, 2011). “Biggest Show on surf”. The Orange County Register.

 U.S. Open of Surfing (n.d.). In Surf City USA. Retrieved from https://www.surfcityusa.com/events/signature-events/us-open-of-surfing/

Where Live Entertainment & Aviation Collide (n.d.). In AFTRBRNR Music Festival. Retrieved  from https://www.afterburnermusicfestival.com/about