Tucked away in Hamden, Connecticut, Eastern Pulse Board Shop has been more than a local hub for skateboards, snowboards, and gear–it’s been a launchpad for a generation of riders, artists, creatives, and thinkers. Founded in 1994 and still independently owned, the shop has become a cornerstone of the Connecticut skate and snow scene, known not just for its killer selection and knowledge but for its spirit of mentorship and connection.

Longtime owner Anthony Pallotto has built a reputation as someone who genuinely cares, not just about the sport, but about the people who find themselves in it. Whether it’s helping a kid find their first setup or encouraging them to push themselves and find confidence, Anthony’s always made it a priority to bring young people into the community. His passion for keeping board culture alive in Connecticut mirrors the mission behind Shoreline Summer Fest: building something that’s real, community-driven, and lasting.

That mission isn’t lost on Festival Director Tj Redding, who credits Eastern Pulse with sparking his own passion for marketing, branding, and building culture. “When I was a freshman in high school, I’d head to Eastern Pulse after school. Just hanging out with some friends, watching people come in and out, and seeing how Ant ran the shop. It was the first place I saw community and commerce come together in a way that felt exciting. That’s where the gears started turning.” That early exposure would eventually lead to the grassroots ethos that defines Shoreline Summer Fest today.

At the fest, Eastern Pulse won’t just be setting up a table, they’ll be representing everything that makes Connecticut’s skate and snow scene special. You can expect them to show up with local energy, gear expertise, and the same attitude that’s made them a Hamden staple for three decades. Whether you’re a lifelong rider or just curious about the culture, they’re the type of vendor you’ll want to stop and talk to.

Shoreline Summer Fest and Eastern Pulse are both about creating spaces where people feel welcome to explore what they love—whether that’s music, art, or skating. That’s why having them at the fest is more than just cool, it’s full circle.

Catch Eastern Pulse Board Shop at Shoreline Summer Fest and connect with a crew that’s been shaping local culture for years. Come for the gear, stay for the conversation, and walk away reminded of why building local matters.

You can check out Eastern Pulse (HERE).