Experience Art, Music & More at Parksville Beach Festival

From July 10 to August 17, the Parksville waterfront comes alive with towering sand sculptures, live music, an artisan market, and family-friendly activities. Locally known as Beachfest, this vibrant celebration offers a dose of creativity, community, and coastal charm.

Masterpieces Made with Sand, An International Showcase

The centrepiece of the Parksville Beach Festival is the Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition, taking place July 10–13 at Parksville Community Park. This year’s theme, “Circus by the Sea,” invites 30 master sculptors from around the world to craft larger-than-life sand creations using nothing but sand and water. The event kicks off on Thursday, July 10, with the sculptors preparing their sand blocks during the “Pound Up.” On Friday, July 11, at 2 PM, the opening ceremony marks the beginning of public viewing. As you wander through the exhibition, take note of your favourite sculptures and don’t forget to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award. Winners will be announced during the awards ceremony on Sunday, July 13, at 5 PM.

If you can’t make the competition, don’t worry! The completed Parksville sand castles remain on display daily from July 14 to August 17, 9:30 AM to 8:30 PM. Entry is by donation (suggested $5 per person), and proceeds benefit local non-profits and community projects. Since 1999, Parksville Beach Festival Society has donated over $1 million from festival proceeds to the community.

Dig In and Discover the Joy of Sand Sculpting

Get your hands in the sand and learn from the pros during the Parksville Canadian Tire Sand Sculpting Lessons & Demonstrations on July 12 and 13, from 10 AM to 5 PM. These interactive, family-friendly sessions are open to all ages and skill levels, offering expert tips and plenty of sandy fun.

See the Sand Sculptures After Dark in the Ultimate Glow-Up

Don’t miss the Coastal Community Credit Union’s Sculpture Light Up on August 15 and 16, running from dusk until 11 PM. As the sun sets, the towering sand creations come to life, bathed in vibrant, coloured spotlights that highlight intricate textures and cast dramatic shadows. This captivating after-dark spectacle offers a magical experience, transforming the already-impressive sculptures into stunning works of art illuminated under the night sky.

Wander Through A Market of Handcrafted Treasures

Celebrate the region’s creative talent at Art in the Park in the gardens surrounding the tennis courts at the Parksville Community Park. Art in the Park takes place July 26 from 10 AM to 5 PM and July 27 from 10 AM to 4 PM. This weekend market features over 60 artists and vendors offering a variety of handmade goods, including pottery, jewellery, paintings, photography, woodwork, and more! This is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts or souvenirs while supporting local artisans.

Live Tunes and Leisurely Vibes

At Parksville Beach Festival, you’ll discover talented buskers adding spontaneous charm to the celebration. Live busking can be enjoyed daily from July 14 to August 17 with artists performing in Parksville Community Park. Bring a blanket and enjoy the sounds of talented local musicians. Morning busking sessions run from 11 AM–1 PM, and afternoon busking sessions run from 2–4 PM. These free, casual performances offer moments of delight when you least expect them.

The Sounds of Summer at Parksville Outdoor Theatre

Beachfest features three ticketed concerts along with free performances. Bring a chair, bring a friend, and get ready to groove! Music lovers will enjoy a full summer of on-stage entertainment at Beachfest, starting with Chilliwack on July 12, performing iconic hits one last time on their Farewell to Friends Tour—get tickets here for this unforgettable sendoff. The Tim Hortons Free Summer Concert Series follows on select Fridays and Saturdays (July 18, 19, 25, 26 & August 1, 2, 15, 16), offering easygoing evenings of music by the beach—no ticket required. Beachfest ROCKS! Music Festival, sponsored by Mid Island Co-op, celebrates old-time rock and roll, classic rock, and more from August 8–10—tickets available here. Beachfest wraps up with a powerful performance by The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy on August 17, celebrating the close of the festival with the spirit of Canadian pride and musical excellence—purchase tickets here.

Whether you're drawn by the world-class Parksville sand castles, energizing live music, or welcoming community spirit, the Parksville Beach Festival offers something unforgettable for everyone. Plan your visit today and be part of the magic at Parksville Beach Festival!

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This blog post is sponsored by Parksville Beach Festival