Results Are In For The Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition and Exhibition

After five and a half weeks of breathtaking artistry, the world-class sand sculptures in the Parksville Community Park are coming down this week. While it’s always bittersweet to watch them fade back into sand, there’s plenty to celebrate!

Attendance:
This year’s Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Exhibition welcomed 119,092 visitors, up 3% from last summer. “Strong visitor attendance is due to a fabulous exhibition, excellent weather, and our new location in the park,” said Cheryl Dill, President of the Parksville Beach Festival Society. “The encouragement from both residents and visitors is so uplifting for our hard-working volunteers and staff.”

Entertainment Highlights:
From Chilliwack’s Farewell to Friends Tour to the lively Tim Hortons Summer Concert Series, Party City Buskers, Art in the Park, and the Beachfest ROCKS! Music Festival, the park was buzzing with energy. The Sculpture Light-Up added extra magic on the final weekend, while the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy closed the festival with an unforgettable performance.

People’s Choice Awards:
With over 102,000 votes cast, the public crowned this year’s crowd favourites:

Solo: Manuel Campos (Colombia) – Role Reversal

Doubles: Sue McGrew (USA) & Dmitry Klimenko (Russia) – Peace Amid the Storm

Making a Difference:
Beyond art and entertainment, the Festival is dedicated to giving back. Since 1999, the Society has donated more than $1.2 million to local non-profits and community projects, including the Parksville Outdoor Theatre. In 2025, proceeds will again support 24 not-for-profit organizations and community initiatives.

Accessibility in Action:
Before the sculptures are taken down, the Society is welcoming a group with visual impairments to experience the creations through touch, part of their ongoing commitment to improving accessibility.

The Parksville Beach Festival Society is proud to host a family-friendly, community-driven event that brings joy to thousands, supports local groups, and showcases incredible talent.

For more information about Parksville Beach Festival visit www.parksvillebeachfest.ca.

Media Contact:

Cheryl Dill, President, Parksville Beach Festival Society

E: [email protected] or [email protected]