Watch world class sand sculptors square off in competition, check out their amazing creations as you stroll the beach and on select weekends, visit artisan market booths and enjoy live music during this month long fest.
Parksville Beach Fest
Everything's beach-y at this world class sand sculpting competition and exhibition, featuring an artisan market and weekend concerts!
Parksville Beach Fest on Social Media
It all goes down at Parksville Community Park & Beach (193 Island Highway East, Parksville BC).
The competition is intense, drawing master sculptors from around the world. You can get to know the artists competing at this year's festival here.
Beachfest sand sculpture dates & times
Jul 13-16 sand sculpting competition
Jul 17 - Aug 20 exhibition
Competition hours (open to the public)
Friday, July 14, 2:00pm - 8:30pm
Saturday, July 15, 9:30am - 8:30pm
Sunday, July 16, 9:30am - 8:30pm
Exhibition hours 9:30am - 8:30pm daily through Aug 20, 2023
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Activities and events at Beachfest
Ever wanted to learn how to build a better sandcastle? Over the competition weekend, there will be sand sculpting lessons and demonstrations taking place.
After the first weekend's sculpture competition, the sculptures will remain for viewing through Aug 20. Check them out any time! Concerts, buskers, and an artisan market will jazz up the festivities through the month.
Concerts
In addition to the sculpture competition, two major concerts mark Beachfest's month long festivities:
Aug 11 - 13 Rock the Park / Parksville BC
Aug 20 Symphony By the Sea / Parksville BC
Fridays and Saturdays there is also a free summer concert series.