STAB and Kona Big Wave Teaming up for the Second Annual E.A.S.T. Fest 

STAB Kona East Fest:

Kona Big Wave and STAB are bringing the energy of surf culture to New York City with the return of E.A.S.T. Fest, a two-day celebration built around the surfers, shapers, artists, musicians, and creative voices pushing boardsports culture forward. The second annual event expands on last year’s festival with a full weekend of activities spanning Manhattan and Rockaway Beach.

The centerpiece arrives Friday, October 2, when the latest EAST film series finale premieres at Vans Skate Space 198. The series follows professional surfer Harry Bryant as he travels the world, testing boards created by a collection of emerging and established shapers. STAB has also been highlighting the 2026 project and its 10 shapers, with Kona Big Wave and Vans presenting the series.

The celebration continues Saturday at Rockaway Beach with a group surf featuring Harry Bryant, Mikey February and Mason Ho, followed by a live recording of StabMic. For Kona Big Wave, whose beer originated on Hawaii’s Big Island in 1994 and remains closely connected to surf culture, E.A.S.T. Fest provides another opportunity to bring its island-inspired identity to a new audience.

Here is the full STAB Kona East Fest announcement from STAB and Kona Big Wave:

STAB and Kona Big Wave are bringing together the surfers, shapers, artists, and voices who are shaping the culture for a two-day celebration in one of the world’s most influential cities.

STAB and Kona Big Wave are taking on New York City by teaming up for the second annual E.A.S.T. Fest on October 2 and 3—a two-day celebration of boardsports culture and the people pushing it forward.

The STAB Kona East Fest is designed to celebrate surfboard craftsmanship, self-expression and to engage longtime fans, showcasing STAB’s award-winning EAST film series, with the finale premiering on Friday, October 2. The series follows pro surfer Harry Bryant around the world as he connects with local surf communities and rides distinctive boards crafted by emerging and iconic shapers.

E.A.S.T. Fest further brings the spirit of the series to life through an immersive weekend celebrating the people, places, and creative perspectives shaping boardsports culture. Attendees will have the opportunity to step beyond the screen and experience the culture alongside leading surf and stake talent, including Harry Bryant, Mason Ho, and Mikey February, as well as other influential voices from across the boardsports community. The festival will also feature artists and musicians giving fans a firsthand look at how surfing is shaping culture.

“I’m stoked to be part of E.A.S.T. Fest again this year with STAB and Kona Big Wave,” said Harry Bryant. “What I love about the event is that it’s not just about surfing, it’s about the people, the boards, the culture and having a good time together. It’s always cool to meet fans and bring new people into the sport, and I’m excited to see what this year has in store.”

As the STAB Kona East Fest title sponsor, Kona Big Wave is continuing its investment in the surf and skate communities by supporting the athletes, events, and programs who are bringing fresh voices and new energy to boardsports. With island roots and a long-standing connection to surf culture, Kona is bringing E.A.S.T. Fest to NYC to celebrate the spirit of connection and community while empowering leaders across surf, skate, and music.

“At Kona Big Wave, we’re all about celebrating the energy that comes from riding the same wavelength with others, and that’s what makes E.A.S.T. Fest such a natural fit for us,” said Chris Jones, VP of Marketing for Kona Big Wave. “It’s a chance to celebrate the athletes, shapers, artists and fans who make this culture what it is, all in one place. We’re proud to be back with STAB for a second year and to keep showing up for the surf community in ways that go beyond the water.”

About the STAB Kona East Fest Festival Weekend:

The events kick off Friday, October 2, at Vans Skate Space 198, bringing the E.A.S.T. experience to life in the heart of NYC. The evening will feature a special viewing party for the EAST series finale, alongside live music performances. More than a viewing party, the night will bring together the athletes, artists, musicians and fans defining the next generation of boardsports culture, setting the stage for a weekend that celebrates where surf and skate are headed next.

On Saturday, October 3, the celebration moves to Rockaway Beach for a full day on the water. The event will feature a group surf with some of the sport’s most exciting names, including Harry Bryant, Mikey February and Mason Ho, giving fans an opportunity to get in the water alongside the athletes shaping the next generation of surf culture. Guests can then unwind before joining a live recording of StabMic with Harry and the winning shaper, hosted by Damien Fahrenfort.

Some areas will be 21+, but the event is open to all ages. Stay tuned for more information over the next few weeks. For more details, updates, and ticketing links, visit: stabmag.com.

About Kona Big Wave

Founded under the golden sun of the Big Island of Hawaii in 1994, Kona Big Wave embraces the aloha spirit while spreading its foundations of balance, respect for nature, authenticity, and building community with your ohana. Today, the easy-drinking, island-style premium beer brings the aloha across the mainland U.S. and more than 30 countries globally. For more information visit konabigwave.com, and follow @KonaBigWave on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

About STAB

STAB is an independent surf media company known for original films, progressive editorial, scroll-stopping events, and cultural commentary. With projects like Stab in the Dark, Stab High, E.A.S.T., and How Surfers Get Paid, Stab documents and elevates surf culture with intent. Because surfing matters.

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