THE U.S. OPEN of Surfing is one of the events which makes the Huntington Beach Pier area “the Carnegie Hall” of the sport. However, it won’t be held this year and will return in 2021 (US Open photo).

One of the gems in the crown of international surfing – as well as a huge event for the town nicknamed “Surf City” – won’t be held this year.

Today (Monday) the sponsors of the 2020 Vans US Open of Surfing announced that the competition won’t be held this time, but will be back in Huntington Beach in 2021.

“In light of continued health concerns and current guidelines surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic,” the US Open will skip a year, Vans announced in a statement today.

“The decision to cancel was made after careful consideration, with the health and safety of fans, athletes, staff and the local community remaining the top priority,” the statement added.

The annual event is more than just surfing. It also includes BMX racing and skateboard competitions as well as music and other features. A late summer tradition since 1959 – when it was known as the West Coast Surfing Championship – the US Open brings as many as 500,000 people to Huntington Beach and adds $16.4 million to the HB economy and $21.5 million to Orange County overall.

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