Ultimate Skate Culture Weekend: House of Vans Takes Over Braamfontein

From November 1 to 3, 2024, @play_braam at 68 Juta Street became the ultimate playground for skate culture – think a weekend crammed with skateboards, beats, art, and enough ink to start a tattoo army. This wasn’t just a “House of Vans” – it was a full-on kingdom for anyone who thinks “Off The Wall” is more than just a slogan.

Unforgettable Experiences at the House of Vans

Concrete Bowls, Art Installations & Live Performances

Inside, you’d find concrete bowls to shred, wild art installations, and stages that knew how to throw down. Imagine a place where you can skateboard your heart out, then catch a concert, and finish up with a fresh tattoo (or just admire someone else’s brave new ink). Permanent House of Vans spots might live in Chicago and London, but this pop-up made Braam feel like it was the skate culture capital of the world, even if only for 72 hours.

 From the ground floor, you’re greeted by a staircase that doesn’t just lead up – it transcends into a whole other universe. First stop? The Vans pop-up store on the first floor, a one-stop shop where style and skate culture collide. Here, you’ll find an all-star lineup of retail partners: Milk Eyewear (for when you want to see the world through a cooler lens), Broke (because the best style doesn’t have to break the bank), Bantu Records (bringing the tunes), Franasonic (sound wizards in action), Studio Bananaaa (yes, with three a’s – because whynot?)., Shelflife, Sealand Gear, and Baseline Skate Shop.

Head up to the second floor, and you’re diving straight into the creative heart of Joburg. This floor is like a visual buffet – art exhibitions from local legends like Crispy Skateboards, David Shiffman, Grant McLachlan, Chenai Gwandure, Melissa Williams, Tkay Modise, and Kyle Kheswa are there to feast your eyes on. Picture skateboards hanging like artwork (because they are), walls lined with photography just begging to be dissected, and feature films projected for that “skate culture cinema” feel. This floor wasn’t just an exhibit; it was a full-on immersion into Joburg’s creative side, where each piece felt like it had its own story to tell.

The Vans Skate Team Takes Over

And at the back of the building? Well, you didn’t think a House of Vans event would skip the skate park, did you? Of course not. The Vans skate team tore it up with demos, showcasing moves that would either inspire you or make you wonder how they’re even human. Plus, the park was open to the public at select times, so whether you’re a seasoned skater with moves of your own or a newbie still figuring out which foot goes where, there was a chance to dive into the heart of the Vans skate culture. Just remember: if you’re gonna fall, fall with style! 

Up on the rooftop, the vibe shifted to a laid-back beach scene with a killer city backdrop. It was the perfect spot to kick back, pop open a drink and soak it all in after a full day of shopping, art-gazing, and skateboard-watching. Picture this: a bar area with all the chill vibes of a coastal hangout, but with Joburg’s skyline adding that urban edge. It’s the kind of place where you could let your hair down (or your beanie) and unwind in true House of Vans style.

And finally, what’s a House of Vans event without a stage to rock the night? Known for assembling epic lineups, House of Vans brought together an incredible mix of global and local talent this year. Leading the charge was none other than British-Nigerian powerhouse and Vans brand ambassador for the “Always Pushing” campaign, Little Simz, who delivered a headlining set to remember. Sharing the stage were some of South Africa’s most electric artists – from Muzi’s unique beats and Internet Girl’s edgy sound, to the unmistakable vibes of K.Keed, Marcus Harvey, lordkez, and Ebumnandini. This lineup wasn’t just stacked; it was a sonic thrill ride.