International Surfing Day was started in 2004 by The Surfrider organization. This day is held annually on June 20th, to celebrates surfing and it’s lifestyle.

Surfing was a significant part of the Polynesian culture for centuries. Europeans observed people surfing in Tahiti in 1767 and again in 1769.  In the journals of Captain James Hook, 1779, by Lieutenant James King, the art of surfing on Hawaii is mentioned.  Mark Twain even made mention of it when writing about a trip to Hawaii in 1866.

Surfing refers to the ability of riding a wave, no matter if the surfer is using a board or not.  It also does not matter what the stance is, as long as the person is “riding a wave”.  In modern times, most surfers are found standing on a surfboard as they navigate a wave.

This global event includes barbecues, film screenings, surf contests or other surf related activities  scheduled in more than 30 countries, this certainly shows the impact of the sport. Participants also work on projects to promote coastal protection including beach clean ups and habitat restoration.

Not near a beach or event but still want to be involved? Visit www.surfridersfoundation.com to make a donation to prtoect the beaches we all love!