Parksville's Sand Sculpting Competition history dates back to 1982, when we hosted our first "B.C. Open". A total of 100 people attended the first event, and it was reviewed as a "great success". From the BC Open to its present day title "The Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition", this event has evolved into a world class Master Sculptor competition.
New this year, our competition has been officially designated as a qualifying event for the World Championship of Sand Sculpting in Federal Way, Washington. This designation was awarded based on our dedication to the enhancement of sand sculpting art through quality and professionalism. This will guarantee our First Place winner an automatic placement in The World Championship of Sand Sculpting. Airfare, hotel, and accommodations and an appearance and completion stipend will be included. The 2nd & 3rd Place winners will have their names in a pool to be drawn upon as space permits.
In the last 10 years Parksville has welcomed over 500,000 visitors to our Sand Sculpting Exhibition, located at the Parksville Community Park on Corfield Road off Hwy 19A (Exit 46). Visitors arrive from everywhere in the world to marvel at these unbelievable feats of artistry and engineering. Our competition is open to professional/master level sculptors, and draws artists from around the globe. The competition itself lasts for 24 hours over 3 days. Gates open to the public starting at 2 pm, Saturday July 17th. At this time the public can watch the sculptures "under construction". However, viewing can be seen through the fencing all day Friday July 16th. The sculptures remain in place for four weeks following the competition. Admission to the venue is by a suggested donation of $2.00 per person.
Generous donations and sponsorship - in time, effort and finances by the private & corporate sectors of the community as well as many local volunteer groups combine to make this event a "SANDTASTIC" success.
You won't want to miss any of the activities on the beach during July and August -Parksville Kite Festival, Car show, Quality Foods Fireworks Display and Kidfest with entertainment and kids' sandcastle event, beach volleyball & croquet tournaments, just to name a few. The famous Lions Adventure Park is a must for younger members of the family to visit. Tennis courts, ball parks, a lacrosse box, skate board park, covered picnic area, and a large field for kite flying are also located in the park. The beach itself offers a beautiful view with its long sandy beaches and eastern exposure; this is an ideal spot to spend a few days, or the whole summer.
Parksville Beach Festival Society
Phone: 250-951-2678
Email: info@parksvillebeachfest.ca
