For Immediate Release:
Ventura, Calif. (April 28, 2026) – Visit Ventura is spotlighting a community-first approach in partnership with the first-ever JACKALOPE Block Party taking over Downtown Ventura May 1–3. In its debut on the West Coast, JACKALOPE will highlight local businesses, artists, and students to create an event experience rooted in Ventura’s creative spirit.
More than a global action sports festival, JACKALOPE Block Party Ventura reflects a deeper integration with the local community, demonstrating an intentional effort to connect fans and athletes with the people and places that make up Ventura.
“Ventura shows up in a big way when it comes to community,” said Marlyss Auster, President & CEO of Visit Ventura. “What makes this event so special isn’t just what’s happening on the ramps; it’s the collaboration behind the scenes. From our students and artists to our small businesses, this is a true reflection of Ventura’s creativity and the pride we have in sharing it.”
Local businesses are playing a key role in welcoming Jackalope participants and visitors. Tony’s Pizzaria and Bombay Bar & Grill will host official after-parties —open to the public— during the event weekend, while the Welcome Room (set to open in 2027) will serve as production headquarters for the Jackalope team. Seven Ventura businesses are contributing exclusive offers and swag for nearly 100 VIP and athlete gift bags, encouraging attendees to explore Ventura beyond Downtown.
Visit Ventura is proud to bridge the gap between the international event and local youth. Over a dozen students from the Buena High School woodshop class, in collaboration with legendary skateboard company Powell-Peralta, designed and built a custom skate ramp, offering the students a hands-on opportunity to contribute to a professional competition setting and truly create a legacy and real-life portfolio. The Powell-Peralta & Buena High School ramp will be free to the public to skate on during the event weekend. In partnership with Ventura Unified School District, students have also created original skateboard deck artwork, which will be showcased in a custom installation developed by Vita Art Center.
“‘As an individual, we can do so much; together we can do so much more.’ Thanks to community partners, Visit Ventura and Skate One, for supporting Buena High woodshop and giving the students a chance to showcase their skills,” said Scott Manninen, Buena High School woodshop instructor. “Hopefully, it will inspire more kids to skate and maybe build their own ramps.”
Local integration will take other forms, too. Bike Ventura County will provide a complimentary bike valet, supporting sustainable travel to JACKALOPE; Walden Surfboards teamed up with Powell-Peralta for a surfboard giveaway which will launch onsite, celebrating both companies’ legacy in their respective fields; NAMBA Performing Arts Space will open its door during the event weekend to offer attendees a cool space to relax and also view the Visit Ventura produced mini-documentary, “George Powell’s Ventura Skateboard Factory: How One Man Shaped Skateboarding”; Darvik will support as a local A/V partner; and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is offering discounted train travel to Ventura throughout the event weekend.
JACKALOPE will not feature any food or beverage trucks or vendors; instead, fans, athletes, and staff are encouraged to patronize the dozens of local Downtown restaurants and shops, fueling money back into the community that is welcoming them.
As Ventura continues to welcome world-class events, Visit Ventura remains focused on ensuring they reflect the heart of the community and are not just events that come and go.
“Jackalope Block Party is set to bring 15,000 people into Downtown Ventura to support local businesses and experience the energy of our community firsthand,” said Meredith Hart, City of Ventura’s Economic Development Manager. “This kind of activation creates an unforgettable event and drives real impact, from increased visitor spending and hotel stays to more than one million media impressions, continuing to position Ventura as a go-to destination for recreation and adventure.”
For an updated list of local Ventura businesses involved with JACKALOPE, check here.
