If you’re a beach volleyball enthusiast, there’s one summer event that stands above the rest: the Vancouver Open at Kitsilano Beach. From July 11–13, 2025, the sands of Kits Beach will come alive with world-class athletes, passionate fans, and a unique tradition that sets this tournament apart from any other in North America.
Why the Vancouver Open Is a Must-See for Beach Volleyball Fans
The Vancouver Open is the flagship event of the Volleyball BC Beach Tour, now celebrating its 32nd edition. Each year, it draws the best beach volleyball players from Canada, the US, and around the globe, all competing for glory and a share of the grand prize purse. The tournament features a 32-team main draw for both men and women, with top teams qualifying through FIVB points, Volleyball BC rankings, and a fiercely competitive qualifier held on Friday.
But the Vancouver Open is more than just elite competition. It’s a festival of beach culture, with a lively beer garden, a buzzing crowd, and a community-driven atmosphere that makes everyone—from first-time spectators to seasoned players—feel like part of the action.
The Skyball Tradition: A Vancouver Open Signature
What truly sets the Vancouver Open apart is its legendary “skyball on match point” tradition. In most beach volleyball tournaments, the pressure of match point means players stick to their most reliable serves. But at Kits Beach, when a team reaches match point, the crowd expects something spectacular: the skyball serve.
A skyball is a dramatic, high-arching serve that soars into the sky before dropping back down to the sand. It’s a serve that’s as entertaining as it is challenging, requiring precision, power, and nerves of steel. At the Vancouver Open, the skyball has become a rite of passage—when the score hits 20, the crowd will start chanting and heckling, demanding the skyball. If the server refuses, they’ll hear about it from the passionate fans, who see this as a sacred part of the Kits Beach experience.
“You’re at 20, you’re expected to do a skyball and the crowd will heckle you if you don’t... you cannot advance if you don’t.”
— Everett Delorme — The Godfather of The Vancouver Open | Beach Volleyball Film
This playful pressure creates unforgettable moments, both for players and fans. It’s not just about winning—it’s about embracing the spirit of beach volleyball, entertaining the crowd, and becoming part of Vancouver Open lore.
More Than Just a Tournament
Beyond the main event, the Vancouver Open features youth divisions (14U and 16U), giving the next generation of beach volleyball stars a chance to shine on the same courts as the pros. The tournament is also supported by a dedicated community of volunteers, sponsors, and fans who help make it “the best event on the beach.”
Plan Your Visit
- Dates: July 11–13, 2025
- Location: Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver, BC
- Tickets: Free general admission and VIP options available
- Parking: Available in marked/pay lots; street parking is limited
Whether you’re a player, a coach, or a fan of beach volleyball, the Vancouver Open is an event you can’t miss. Come for the world-class competition, stay for the party, and don’t forget to demand that skyball when the match is on the line!
