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Annual Beachfest Sand Sculpture Festival

Your Guide to Parksville Beach Festival 2024

Discover the Magic of Beachfest!

If you're looking for a summer experience like no other, the Parksville Beach Festival 2024 is where you need to be. Known to locals as Beachfest, this 5 ½ week-long family-oriented festival runs from mid-July to the third week in August. It features the awe-inspiring Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition, weekend concerts, daily buskers, an artisan market, and a special weekend evening light-up of the sculptures. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of creativity, entertainment, and community spirit!


Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition

When & Where

Competition Dates:

  • July 11 - 14, 2024

Competition Hours Open to the Public:

  • Friday, July 12: 2:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Saturday, July 13 & Sunday, July 14: 9:30 AM - 8:30 PM

Exhibition Dates:

July 15 - August 18, 2024
Hours: 9:30 AM - 8:30 PM


Location:

Parksville Community Park & Beach
193 Island Highway East, Parksville, BC, V9P 2H2


Meet the Sculptors

Every year, master sculptors from all around the world gather to showcase their talents in Parksville’s prestigious sand sculpting competition. These artists transform ordinary sand into extraordinary works of art, each with its unique flair and story. Make sure to stroll through the exhibition and marvel at their creativity and skill.
Learn More


Live Entertainment & Events

Fireworks


Throughout the Parksville Beach Festival, you'll find a vibrant array of live entertainment. Enjoy weekend concerts that cater to all musical tastes, daily performances by talented buskers, and an artisan market where you can discover unique handmade crafts. The festival’s highlight is the enchanting evening light-up of the sand sculptures, creating a magical atmosphere you won't want to miss.


Outdoor Theatre

Outdoor Theatre in Parksville


The Parksville Beach Festival Society operates the outdoor theatre, offering a variety of events throughout the festival. From live performances and movie nights to community gatherings, there’s always something happening at the Parksville outdoor theatre. Be sure to check out the full schedule of exciting events and make the most of your visit to Beachfest. Explore all the events on offer here.


Event Highlights

Here's a sneak peek at some of the exciting events you can look forward to at the Parksville Beach Festival:
  • Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition: July 11-14, 2024
  • Parksville Canadian Tire Sculpting Lessons & Demonstrations: July 13 & 14, 2024
  • Footprints Security “Opening Weekend” Concert featuring Trooper: July 13, 2024
  • Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Exhibition: July 15 - August 18, 2024
  • Party City Buskers: July 15 - August 18, 2024
  • Tim Hortons Free Summer Concert Series: July 19, 20, 26 & 27 and August 2, 3, 16 & 17, 2024
  • Art in the Park: July 20-21, 2024
  • Mid Island Co-op ‘Rock the Park’ Music Festival: August 9-11, 2024
  • Coastal Community Credit Union Sculpture Light Up!: August 16 & 17, 2024
  • Quality Foods Festival of Lights: August 17, 2024
  • Quality Foods Children’s Sandcastle Competition: August 18, 2024
  • "Symphony by the Sea" featuring the Vancouver Island Symphony: August 18, 2024
For more details on these events and the full schedule, click here.


Plan Your Visit

The Parksville Beach Festival is more than just a series of events—it's a celebration of creativity, community, and summer fun. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from afar, Beachfest promises unforgettable memories for families, couples, and solo travelers alike on Vancouver Island. Make your summer plans now and experience the magic of the Parksville Beach Festival 2024.
Don’t miss out on the best summer festival of the year!

For more details and updates, visit Parksville Beach Festival.


Tips for Making the Most of Your Beachfest Experience

To ensure you have an unforgettable time at the Parksville Beach Festival, here are a few tips:
  • Arrive Early: The festival draws large crowds, especially on weekends. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot to view the sand sculptures and enjoy the entertainment.
  • Stay Hydrated: Summer days can be hot, so bring plenty of water and stay hydrated while you explore.
  • Bring Sunscreen and Hats: Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and hats. There's plenty of shade, but it's always good to be prepared.
  • Check the Schedule: With so many events and performances, plan your visit by checking the schedule in advance. This way, you won’t miss any of the exciting activities.
  • Support Local Vendors: The artisan market is a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted items. Supporting local vendors helps the community and you might find a special souvenir to take home.
  • Enjoy the Evening Light-Up: The evening light-up of the sand sculptures adds a magical touch to the festival. It’s a must-see, so plan to stay late at least one evening.

Stay at Beach Acres Resort

A short drive away, Beach Acres Resort is the ideal accommodation for Parksville Beach Festival attendees. Nestled along the beautiful shoreline, our resort offers comfortable, family-friendly lodging with stunning ocean views. Enjoy easy access to festival activities, then return to unwind in our spacious suites, cozy cottages, or charming townhomes. With amenities like a heated pool, tennis courts, and direct beach access, Beach Acres Resort provides the perfect retreat after a day of fun and excitement at Beachfest. Make your festival experience unforgettable with a stay at Beach Acres.

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Holiday Hours: Our office will be closed Christmas and New Years Day. Office hours: 9:00am-6:00pm on Dec 24 and 31. 9:00am-9:00pm on Dec 26.