Skaters across the Sunshine State have a big date to mark. On Saturday, January 23, 2027, the Florida Skateboard Hall of Fame returns to Tampa for its yearly induction ceremony. The ceremony starts at 3 PM at Skatepark of Tampa. Fans, families, and old friends will gather to honor the people who built the state’s skate scene.
This guide covers what you need before you go. You will find the date, the venue, ticket advice, the likely schedule, and the list of inductees. Additionally, you will get tips for parking, packing, and making the most of the day. Whether you ride a board or just love skate culture, this event has something for you.
Event Overview at a Glance
First, here is a quick snapshot. Use it to plan your day.
| Detail | Information |
| Event | 2026 class induction ceremony and celebration |
| Date | Saturday, January 23, 2027 |
| Ceremony time | 3 PM |
| Venue | Skatepark of Tampa |
| Address | 4215 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa, FL |
| Related event | Old Man Appreciation Bowl Jam, Friday, January 22, 2027 |
| Tickets | Details not yet confirmed; check official pages |
| Best for | Skaters, families, fans, and industry friends |
Please note that organizers may still change small details. Therefore, check the official pages again a week before you travel.
A Short History of the Hall of Fame
The group began in 2002. Its goal is simple. It honors people who shaped skateboarding in Florida. Some were pro skaters. Others worked in the skate industry. Many changed the culture in quiet ways, such as building parks, running shops, or teaching kids.
Over the years, the ceremony has moved around the state. Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami have all hosted induction events. However, Tampa remains a favorite home because of its deep skate roots. The Hall of Fame also shares its news on social media, so fans can follow each new class.
How the Honors Work
Each year, the group names inductees in several categories. These include Legends, decade classes, Industry, and Friend of Florida. In addition, one person receives the Dave Ellis Lifer Award. This award recognizes a lifelong commitment to skateboarding.
Because of this wide approach, the crowd is always mixed. Pros stand next to shop owners. Longtime locals chat with young skaters. As a result, the day feels more like a family reunion than a formal show.
Date, Time, and Schedule
The main event takes place on Saturday, January 23, 2027. The induction ceremony begins at 3 PM. Doors usually open earlier in the day, and skating starts well before the speeches.
A Full Weekend of Skating
The celebration is more than one afternoon. On Friday, January 22, 2027, the park hosts the 17th annual Old Man Appreciation Bowl Jam. Older skaters show off their bowl skills, and the crowd cheers them on. Consequently, many fans make a weekend trip out of it.
If you can, arrive on Friday. You will see great skating and meet people who will also attend the ceremony on Saturday.
Expected Saturday Timeline
Organizers have not yet posted the full Saturday schedule. However, last year’s ceremony offers a helpful guide. The table below shows that earlier plan. Treat it as an estimate only.
| Time | Likely Activity |
| Morning | Early bowl session for skaters |
| Late morning | Doors open at the park |
| Midday | Check-in, open skating, and hanging out |
| Early afternoon | Best trick jam for all ages |
| 3 PM | Induction ceremony (confirmed start time) |
| Evening | Live music from local bands |
| Late night | Informal gathering off site |
Weather, staffing, and crowd size can shift these times. So, plan to arrive early and stay flexible.
Venue: Skatepark of Tampa
Skatepark of Tampa, often called SPoT, sits at 4215 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. The park opened in 1993. It includes a full pro shop, and it ranks among the top skate venues on the East Coast. Moreover, it hosts the famous Tampa Am and Tampa Pro contests each year.
This history makes SPoT a perfect place for the ceremony. Many of the honorees have skated these very bowls. Therefore, the setting adds meaning to every speech.
What the Park Offers
- A large outdoor skate area with bowls and street obstacles
- A pro shop for boards, shoes, and gear
- Open space for crowds and vendors
- A long record of hosting top contests and community events
Getting There and Parking
Tampa sits on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Most visitors drive, and the park is a short ride from downtown. Parking can fill up fast on big event days. For that reason, arrive early or share a ride with friends.
If you fly in, Tampa International Airport is the closest major airport. From there, you can take a rideshare or rent a car. Also, book your hotel soon, because January is a busy travel month in Florida.
Tickets and Entry
Official ticket details have not been confirmed yet. The organizers say more information will come soon. That means prices, entry rules, and any evening show tickets remain unknown for now.
For a sense of cost, an earlier induction ceremony in Jacksonville charged a low entry fee of ten dollars. Still, each year differs, so do not count on that number.
How to Get Reliable Ticket News
Follow these steps to stay informed:
- Visit the events page on the Skatepark of Tampa website.
- Follow the Hall of Fame on Facebook and other social media.
- Check the group’s link page for updates and announcements.
- Watch for posts using the park’s event hashtags.
Additionally, buy tickets only from official sources. Fake listings can appear before big events. If a price looks too good to be true, skip it.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book your hotel early to lock in a lower rate.
- Carpool with other skaters.
- Bring snacks and water to cut food costs.
- Pack a refillable bottle for the Florida sun.
Meet the 2026 Inductees
The new class brings together names from many eras. According to recent reports, the group includes pros, industry leaders, and community builders. The table below shows the announced honorees by category.
| Category | Inductees |
| Legends | Brent Rademaker and Rob Rodrigues |
| 1980s class | Bob Reeves and Kevin Lambert |
| 1990s class | Bo Turner and Mike Daher |
| Industry | Mike Kruse |
| Friend of Florida | Roberto “Boly” Cortes |
| Dave Ellis Lifer Award | Rodney Mead |
| Also named | Jeff Lenoce, Ed Selego, and Fabiana Delfino |
Each person has a unique story. Some rose to fame in the early days of Florida skating. Others helped the scene grow by opening shops, building ramps, or backing young riders. Together, they show how many different people it takes to build a skate culture.
Why the Class Matters
This group spans several decades. As a result, the ceremony links old school and new school. Older skaters will share memories of backyard ramps and empty pools. Meanwhile, younger fans will learn how the sport grew into what they know today.
The addition of Fabiana Delfino also stands out. Her recognition highlights the growing role of women in the sport. In short, the class reflects a wider and more welcoming scene.
Activities and What to Expect
The day mixes skating, music, and storytelling. Here is what fans can look forward to.
Open Skating and Best Trick Jam
Skaters of all ages can roll the park before the ceremony. Last year’s schedule included an all-ages best trick jam with cash prizes. If a similar contest returns, bring your best tricks. Even if you do not enter, watching is half the fun.
The Induction Ceremony
The ceremony is the heart of the day. Each inductee steps up to share a few words. Friends and family often add short tributes. Some speeches are funny, and others are emotional. Either way, they give you a rare look into Florida skate history.
Live Music and Social Time
Past celebrations ended with live bands in the evening. This blend of music and skating fits the culture well. After the show, many guests gather off site to keep the party going. So, if you want to meet new friends, stick around.
Shopping and Community Booths
Expect the pro shop to stay busy. Local brands and vendors may also set up tables. Consequently, it is a good time to pick up new gear, stickers, or event merchandise.
Event Highlights Worth Watching
Several moments stand out in a day like this.
- The first look at the full inductee class on stage
- The reaction of the Dave Ellis Lifer Award winner
- Stories from skaters who rode Florida’s early parks
- Old friends reuniting in the bowls
- Photo moments with legends from different eras
In addition, many skaters film short clips for social media. If you plan to post, use the official hashtags so others can find your content.
Tips for a Great Day
A little planning goes a long way. Use these simple tips.
What to Bring
- A skateboard and full safety gear, if you plan to ride
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
- A water bottle and light snacks
- A phone charger or power bank
- Cash for vendors and small purchases
- A light jacket for the evening
Safety and Etiquette
Skate parks get crowded during events. Therefore, watch for other riders, and wait your turn in the bowls. Respect the park rules, and listen to staff. Also, ask before you take photos of people up close.
Plan for Weather
January in Tampa is usually mild and dry. Even so, rain can appear without warning. Organizers may change times because of weather. Check the forecast the night before, and carry a small rain layer.
Why You Should Go
This event offers more than skating. It honors the people behind the boards. It also gives younger riders a chance to meet the heroes they have only seen in videos. Furthermore, it supports the local scene and the park that has hosted skaters for decades.
Families will find the day welcoming. Longtime fans will enjoy the memories. New fans will leave with a deeper love for the sport.
Conclusion
The 2027 celebration promises a full weekend of skating, stories, and community. The ceremony takes place on Saturday, January 23, 2027, at 3 PM at Skatepark of Tampa. The Old Man Appreciation Bowl Jam on Friday adds even more action. The new class includes legends, decade honorees, an industry leader, a Friend of Florida, and the Lifer Award winner.
Although ticket details are still pending, you can prepare now. Follow the official pages, book your travel early, and pack for sun and skating. Therefore, mark your calendar and get ready. The Florida Skateboard Hall of Fame has built a tradition worth celebrating, and this year’s event looks like another great one.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the 2027 celebration?
It takes place on Saturday, January 23, 2027. The induction ceremony begins at 3 PM.
2. Where is the event?
It happens at Skatepark of Tampa, located at 4215 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa, FL.
3. How much are tickets?
Prices have not been announced yet. Watch the official event pages for updates.
4. Where can I buy tickets?
Use only official sources, such as the Skatepark of Tampa website and the Hall of Fame social pages.
5. Who will be inducted?
The class includes Brent Rademaker, Rob Rodrigues, Bob Reeves, Kevin Lambert, Bo Turner, Mike Daher, Mike Kruse, Roberto “Boly” Cortes, Rodney Mead, Jeff Lenoce, Ed Selego, and Fabiana Delfino.
6. Is there a weekend event?
Yes. The 17th annual Old Man Appreciation Bowl Jam runs on Friday, January 22, 2027.
7. Can I skate at the event?
Skating has been part of past ceremonies. Bring your board and gear, but confirm park rules first.
8. Is the event family friendly?
Past ceremonies welcomed all ages. Check the final details for any evening show limits.
9. What time should I arrive?
Arrive by late morning. Early arrival helps with parking, check-in, and open skating.
10. Will there be live music?
Last year’s celebration included live bands in the evening. Organizers have not yet confirmed the 2027 lineup.
