Will JonesCommunity is often found around shared hobbies, and skateboarding is no exception. For the founders of KASSO FEST SKATE & SOUND, this shared love of the activity marks the first time the internationally celebrated concept will be celebrated beyond Japan.
As KASSO announced its celebration of skate culture through speed, creativity, and community, it also shared that it will feature headlining musical artists and skaters, taking place in Long Beach, California, from March 21-22.
A Sport Born in the State
For many, the love of skateboarding is deeply ingrained in the culture surrounding it, especially California culture. Initially cobbled from planks of wood or crates attached to dissected roller skate wheels in the 1950s, the sport was meant to replicate surfing on land, but quickly became its own thing.
As the technology evolved throughout the 60s and 70s, skateboarding would take on a life of its own. Wheel technology would advance, fiberglass decks would enable optimal maneuverability and speed, and surfers would take up skateboarding to try their moves on land before bringing them to the water, leading to the creation of the first skateparks.
KASSO, the television show, was launched in Japan in 2024 to celebrate the talent found in skateboarding. During its programming, players would take on wild obstacle courses, designed by the creators of shows such as Takeshi’s Castle and Ninja Warrior to test the athletes’ skills. Now that KASSO FEST is coming to California, the movement aims to take the state by storm.
A Festival With Major Media Partners and Talent
KASSO FEST will feature major media partnerships and talent, giving fans around the world front-row access to every part of it. Red Bull will be live-streaming the event on its Red Bull Skateboarding YouTube Channel and Red Bull TV, giving fans worldwide the chance to experience the headliners and the skating talent on display.
Joining the previously announced headliners LaRussel and Earthgang will be Andy Mineo on Saturday, March 21, and The Mainliners on Sunday, March 22.
Secret Service will also spin as the leading DJ to keep energy high between its sets, and commentator Selema Masekela will be the festival’s host.
While its California roots run deep, the producer at KASSO deeply honors its Japanese roots, both in culture and through shared emotions.
“KASSO was born in Japan as a television show, built around the thrill of challenge. What emerged was something greater,” Yohei Yasunaga, Producer at KASSO, is quoted as saying. “Skaters sharing both failure and triumph, celebrating one another along the way. When a live audience was introduced, that energy exploded. Most vividly in Jiro Pratt’s complete clear. Now, that defining moment comes to Long Beach, a true home of skateboarding.”
Those interested in learning more about how to stream the event or even attend can find information about KASSO FEST on their official Instagram and YouTube accounts. The event runs for two days, from March 21-22, in Long Beach, California.
