Parksville Beach Festival's Sandcastle Competition 2026

Beachfest - A Summer Tradition on Parksville Beach

Each summer, Parksville’s shoreline becomes an open-air gallery during the Parksville Beach Festival’s Sandcastle Competition. In 2026, the event returns to Parksville Community Park and Beach, bringing together talented sculptors, oceanfront views, live entertainment, and plenty of summer fun for the whole family.

Watch the Sculptors Bring the Sand to Life

The competition begins on July 9, with sculptors starting their work on the sand. Visitors can watch the artists in action beginning July 10 at 2:00 p.m., offering a behind-the-scenes look at how these detailed sand creations come to life. Judging and awards take place on July 12 at 5:30 p.m., followed by the full sculpture exhibition from July 13 to August 16.

Explore the Completed Parksville Sand Sculptures

During the exhibition, guests can stroll through the completed sand sculptures daily from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. It is a wonderful way to spend a summer day in Parksville, whether you are visiting with kids, planning a relaxed beach outing, or looking for a memorable local experience during your stay.
Admission is by suggested donation of $5 per person, with proceeds supporting local non-profit organizations and community programs through the Parksville Beach Festival Society. Visitors can also take part in the People’s Choice voting by choosing their favourite sculpture.

More Festival Fun for the Whole Family

Beyond the sandcastle exhibition, Beach Festival offers even more ways to enjoy the season. The 2026 event schedule includes sand sculpting lessons and demonstrations, daily busker performances, summer concerts, family-friendly activities, and special evening events, including a light-up display later in the festival.
For the latest festival schedule and event updates, visit the Parksville Beach Festival website.

Meet the Master Sculptors

A big part of what makes the Parksville Sandcastle Competition so special is the calibre of artists who take part. Each year, master sculptors bring their creativity, technical skill, and imagination to the beach, transforming simple sand into intricate works of art. You can learn more about the talented artists competing this year on the Parksville Beach Festival master sculptors page.

Stay Close to the Festival at Beach Acres Resort

For guests staying at Beach Acres Resort, the Parksville Beach Festival is an easy addition to a summer getaway. Spend the morning relaxing by Rathtrevor Beach, enjoy a swim or a quiet coffee on your patio, then head into Parksville to explore the sand sculpture exhibition and take in the lively beachfront atmosphere.
Whether you are returning to Parksville for a favourite summer tradition or experiencing the Sandcastle Competition for the first time, this event is a beautiful reminder of what makes summers on Vancouver Island so special: soft sandy beaches, creative community events, and plenty of time to slow down and enjoy the view.

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Parksville Sandcastle Competition 2026 Event Details

Event: Parksville Beach Festival’s Sandcastle Competition 2026
Location: Parksville Community Park and Beach
Competition begins: July 9, 2026
Public viewing of sculptors at work: Begins July 10 at 2:00 p.m.
Judging and awards: July 12 at 5:30 p.m.
Sand sculpture exhibition: July 13 to August 16, 2026
Exhibition hours: Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Suggested donation: $5 per person
More information: parksvillebeachfest.ca