The Quiksilver Festival by Swatch brings the Landes coast to life every fall, and the 2025 edition is no exception: an XXL lineup is set to hit the beach breaks of Hossegor, Capbreton and Seignosse. From September 20 to 28, the world’s board culture elite will go head-to-head and celebrate surfing in all its forms. Kelly Slater, Kauli Vaast and Kai Lenny headline this edition, which is shaping up to be unforgettable, backed by a crew of already legendary male and female surfers. Far more than just a competition, the event combines an electrifying atmosphere, live concerts, exclusive screenings, skate demos and a unique vibe true to the Quiksilver and Swatch spirit.
Quiksilver Festival by Swatch in Hossegor: A five-star lineup and an epic week of surfing
The announcement of the return of the Quiksilver Festival by Swatch, from September 20 to 28, has already raised the stakes in every shop and at every Landes peak. The lineup sets the bar very high:
- Kelly Slater, the uncrowned king of surfing, back where the Landes swell shapes legends.
- Kauli Vaast, France’s Olympic champion, ready to showcase his mastery on the season’s best sandbanks.
- Kai Lenny, the most versatile waterman of his generation: hydrofoils, SUP, tubes or airs, nothing escapes him.
- Major names in the game: Matt Wilkinson, Coco Ho, Zeke Lau, and rising sensation Milla Coco Brown.
- On the French side, Michel Bourez, Joan Duru and Maud Le Car will be there, with energetic support from Vahiné Fierro.
This elite selection reflects the aura of the Boardriders family. Every session is set to deliver memorable battles, treating the public to classic maneuvers and world-class surfing as they write a new chapter in European surf culture.
| Surfing | Awards | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Kelly Slater | 11x World Champ | Tubes, power surfing |
| Kauli Vaast | Olympic Champion | Barrels, backside maneuvers |
| Kai Lenny | Multidisciplinary | SUP, foil, big waves |
| Vahiné Fierro | French national team | Power, commitment |
| Maud Le Car | Locals only | Aggressive carves |
To relive the previous matchups between Slater and Vaast on the shores of Hossegor, click on this detailed article.
Festival highlights: more than surfing, a true board culture
Hossegor and its legendary spots host much more than a traditional competition. The festival unfolds on several fronts:
- Live concerts and beach parties hosted by must-see international and local artists.
- Screenings and exclusive content, including «Back to the Wall» with Jérémy Florès in attendance, an immersion into the life of a wave pro.
- Skate Demos with the Swatch team on ramps set up facing the ocean, a reminder that surfing and skating go hand in hand with creativity.
- Meet the Pros : autograph sessions, express coaching and special moments to share a passion for board sports.
This melting pot of surfing, music and art embodies the very DNA of Quiksilver, Rip Curl and Billabong, reinforcing Hossegor’s place among the world capitals of surf culture.
To learn everything about the tradition of surfing championship in Hossegor and the satellite events held every year, find inspiration in this dedicated guide.
| Events | Description | Rental |
|---|---|---|
| Surf Sessions | Competition at the central peak | La Gravière |
| Concerts | International and local artists | Beach tents |
| Skate Demos | Swatch ramps and surprise guests | Seafront promenade |
| Exhibitions | Art, photography and surf culture | Pop-up galleries |
| Surf Yoga | Wellness sessions with pros | Morning beach sessions |
A unique, inclusive vibe at Hossegor’s legendary surf spots
What makes this festival so unmissable is the way the Boardriders family, iconic brands like Quiksilver, Rip Curl and Billabong, and surf collectives join forces: every enthusiast finds their perfect ride, whether they come for the action at La Gravière or to discover new artistic horizons.
- Festive atmosphere : Pop-up villages, surf-inspired food trucks and sunset chill sessions.
- Local discoveries : Beach surf yoga, walks through the Landes forest, shaping workshops.
- Inclusivity : Sessions open to everyone, from rookies to locals who rip in the shorebreak.
For the curious and regulars alike, this event isn’t just a competition—it’s the meeting point for the entire European surf scene. The passion shines through from sunrise sessions to after-parties on the sand: nothing compares to this atmosphere in Hossegor.
For enthusiasts of complementary activities, discover experiences such as surf yoga in Hossegor, ideal for preparing body and mind before the big sets.
Finally, also follow the evolution of the Hossegor spot and its upcoming developments to stay up to date on all the latest Boardriders news in the area.
FAQ – Everything you need to know about the Quiksilver Festival by Swatch in Hossegor
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What are the festival highlights not to be missed?
In addition to the competition featuring Slater, Vaast and Lenny, the concerts, skate demos and screening of the film «Dos au Mur» are major highlights. Surf yoga sessions and surf art exhibitions are also not to be missed. -
Where do the festival’s main events take place?
The main spots are La Gravière, Hossegor Centrale and Capbreton, all accessible from the festival village. -
Is the festival open to everyone, even non-surfers?
Yes, absolutely! Everyone can enjoy the concerts, exhibitions, food corners and surf vibe without even getting wet. -
Can you meet pro surfers during the event?
Autograph sessions, meet-ups and quick coaching sessions are offered so you can connect with the pros in a relaxed, accessible setting. -
What other must-see brands and partners are involved in the event?
Alongside Quiksilver and Swatch, Rip Curl, Billabong and the Boardriders Family are taking part in the festival around Hossegor.
