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Experience the Parksville Sand Castle Sculpture Competition

Beachfest in Parksville BC


Are you ready to witness the magic of creativity, imagination, and skill come to life on the sandy shores of Parksville? The renowned Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition (Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition) is an annual event that captivates visitors from near and far. At Beach Acres Resort, we invite you to embark on a journey into the world of sand sculpting, where dreams take shape and the beach becomes a canvas for artistic expression.
 


The Parksville Beach Festival

The Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition is part of the Parksville Beach Festival. This festival offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Known as Beachfest, this family-oriented festival spans over 5 ½ weeks, running from mid-July to the third week in August. It features a wide range of activities and attractions that capture the essence of summer fun.

The Parksville Beach Festival also offers a delightful array of entertainment options. From weekend concerts and daily buskers to an artisan market and special evening light-up events, there's always something exciting happening. The festival creates a vibrant atmosphere where locals and tourists alike can come together, celebrate the arts, and enjoy the beauty of Parksville.

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With its stunning location on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Parksville and Qualicum Beach provide the perfect backdrop for this lively festival. Nestled between Nanaimo to the south and the Comox Valley to the north, this year-round tourist destination offers breathtaking natural landscapes, including sandy beaches, forest trails, and crystal-clear lakes. Combine these outdoor wonders with world-class restaurants, accommodations, and campsites, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable vacation.

The History of the Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition

With a rich history dating back to 1982, the Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition has evolved into a beloved tradition in the local community and beyond. What began as a modest gathering of 100 attendees has blossomed into an internationally recognized event that draws over 100,000 visitors each year. Today, the competition proudly bears the name "The Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition," a testament to its outstanding reputation.

A World-Class Master Sculptor Competition

The Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition boasts a prestigious status as the only qualifying event for the World Championship of Sand Sculpting in Canada. This recognition is a testament to the commitment of the organizers to uphold the highest standards of sand sculpting artistry, professionalism, and creativity. The competition attracts master sculptors from around the world who showcase their exceptional talent, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with sand as their medium.
Awe-Inspiring Creations and Engaging Experiences
During the competition, visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the sculpting process as it unfolds. For 30 hours over four days, the beach becomes an open-air studio where sculptors breathe life into their creations. Starting from 2:00 pm on Friday, July 14th, 2023, the public can marvel at the sculptures "under construction" until they are completed for judging on Sunday. The sculptures remain on display for five weeks after the competition, providing ample time to appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship.

Date, Times, and Location of the Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition

Mark your calendars and prepare to be amazed! The Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition is scheduled to take place from July 13th to August 20th, 2023. Here are the key details you need to know to plan your visit:

Dates & Times

Competition Dates: July 13th - July 16th, 2023
Exhibition Dates: July 17th - August 20th, 2023
Theme: "Wonders of the World"

During the competition, the public will have the opportunity to witness the sculptors in action and observe their sand creations come to life. The competition hours open to the public are as follows:

Friday, July 14th: 2:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Saturday, July 15th & Sunday, July 16th: 9:30 am - 8:30 pm

The exhibition will be open daily from 9:30 am to 8:30 pm throughout the designated period.


Location

To experience the magic of the Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition, head to the Parksville Community Park & Beach, located at 193 Island Highway East, Parksville, BC, V9P 2S5.

This picturesque location provides the perfect backdrop for the sculptures and allows visitors to enjoy the beautiful beach and park amenities while marvelling at the artistic wonders.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the creativity, talent, and craftsmanship of master sculptors from around the world. Grab your family and friends, and join us at the Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition for an unforgettable experience of art, nature, and community celebration.


Where to Stay in Parksville, BC

Beach Acres Resort, nestled in the heart of Parksville, offers the perfect home base for your sand sculpting adventure. After witnessing the incredible sand creations, return to the comfort of our beachfront accommodations, where you can relax, unwind, and reflect on the wonders you've experienced. With spacious cottages and stunning natural surroundings, our resort provides a tranquil haven where you can rejuvenate after a day of exploration.

Embrace the Wonders of Parksville

While the Sand Castle Sculpting Competition may be the highlight of your visit, Parksville has much more to offer. Explore the picturesque beaches, embark on hiking trails surrounded by lush forests, or indulge in the local culinary delights. Parksville is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor activities that will complement your sand sculpting adventure.

The Parksville Sand Castle Sculpting Competition is a testament to the power of creativity and the beauty of transforming a simple grain of sand into a breathtaking work of art. At Beach Acres Resort, we invite you to be part of this wonderful experience, where dreams are sculpted and imagination knows no bounds. Book your stay with us and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of sand artistry, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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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.