CARV Expo Surf Trade Show Returns To San Diego In 2026

“We only see each other at funerals now,” pointed out snowboard legend and action sports commentator Todd Richards a couple of years ago on his Monday Mass podcast. 

Talking about the “good, old days,” when the Action Sports Retailer trade show in San Diego was the place to be, whether you were repping an emerging brand, aligned with one of the big dogs, or just industry-curious and keen to get a glimpse of the latest and greatest from the surf world, the trade shows were much more than a place to book orders and do business. In its own unique way, it was a gathering of the tribe. When the happy hour beers broke out in the afternoon, it became a place to catch up with old friends, make new ones, share intel, and just have a bit of fun with like-minded humans. 

Last year, San Diego got a new trade show when the inaugural CARV Expo landed at the convention center. And after a successful kick-off, CARV Expo returns in 2026. 

"...There was a renewed energy in the building that has been missing for years. It was great to get everyone back together in So Cal under the same roof,” shared Brixton’s Sean Fleuriou.

"The quality of the show was right on point, a great beginning for the surf and skate industry,” added Dave Nash from Sun Diego Boardshop.

With dozens of surf and skate brands in attendance last year, including leaders like Outknown, Rip Curl, Quiksilver, and Brixton, this year CARV, which will take place from May 14-15, is looking to expand its footprint and attract even more folks. They’ve expanded their Retail Advisory Board to become a more inclusive tent, catering to a broader array of brands and their needs. 

Also back for year two is the SURFER Emerging Brands Grant. With the understanding that a rising tide lifts all ships, last year SURFER and CARV teamed up to offer grants to up-and-coming brands that deserved a spot on the trade show floor, but didn’t have the budget to make it happen. We’ll be making more announcements on this front as we roll into 2026, but for those brands on the rise, get ready!

"CARV had a great energy and it was really productive for our brands, like a tailwind towards success for the upcoming selling season,” explained Dylan Slater, CEO of Outerknown and Firewire.

With year two of CARV on the horizon, hopefully we’ll see everyone in San Diego in May. It sure beats seeing everyone at a funeral.