Parksville Beach Festival 2025

Where Sand Meets Spectacle

The sun dips low, the tide recedes, and an entirely new world emerges on the shores of Parksville Bay. Thousands gather on golden sands, anticipation buzzing in the air—what sculptural marvels await? From July 10 through August 17, 2025, Vancouver Island’s most celebrated summer event transforms a stretch of shoreline into a living canvas of global artistry. Read on to uncover every detail you need to plan your unforgettable Beachfest adventure.

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Overview

Dates & Times

Sand Sculpting Competition: July 10 – 13, 2025
• Public Viewing Hours:
✓ Friday, July 11: 2:00 PM – 8:30 PM
✓ Saturday & Sunday, July 12 & 13: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Sand Sculpting Exhibition: July 14 – August 17, 2025
• Daily Exhibition Hours: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM

Location

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

What to Expect

Theme

Circus by the Sea—this year’s international sand masters will conjure acrobatic elephants, daring trapeze artists, and whimsical clowns entirely from sand and water.

Global Talent

30 master sculptors from around the world compete for top honours, transforming 15‑tonne sand blocks into gravity-defying masterpieces.

People’s Choice Award

Cast your vote for fan-favourite sculptures and watch winners crowned during the closing ceremony at 5:00 PM on July 13.

Competition Highlights

Pound Up (July 10)

Sculptors prepare the colossal sand blocks—a spectacle of hydraulic machinery and teamwork.

Live Demos & Lessons (July 12 & 13, 10 AM – 5 PM)

Join the Parksville Canadian Tire Sculpting Zone for hands‑on workshops suitable for all ages.

Awards Ceremony (July 13, 5 PM)

Celebrate the winners in the outdoor theatre, followed by a champagne toast and photo ops with the artists.

Exhibition Experience

Post‑Competition Display

Admire every intricate detail from July 14 onward—perfect for sunrise strolls or sunset selfies.

Entry by Donation

Suggested $5 per person; proceeds support local non‑profits and community projects.

Illuminated Evenings

On select nights (check the official schedule), watch sculptures glow under dramatic lighting.

Beyond the Sculptures

Party City Buskers (July 14 – August 17)

Art in the Park (July 26 & 27)

Live Concerts

Visitor Information

Getting Here

• By Car: Situated just off the Island Highway, follow “Beachfest” directional signs to on‑site parking (fee applies).
• Public Transit: BC Transit buses serve Parksville; disembark at Island Highway & Martindale Rd for a 5‑minute walk.
• By Air: Fly into Nanaimo Airport (YCD), then rent a car or take a shuttle north (approx. 40 km).

Accommodation

• Book Early: Nearby hotels and B&Bs fill quickly. Consider Qualicum Beach or Nanaimo for additional options 20–40 km away.
• Camping: Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park offers ocean‑front sites; reserve in advance through BC Parks.

Amenities & Accessibility

• Restrooms & Changing Areas: Multiple facility blocks within Parksville Community Park.
• Food & Drink: Local food trucks and artisan vendors line the park—expect fresh seafood, tacos, ice‑cold lemonade, and more.
• Accessibility: The festival site is wheelchair‑friendly; beach mats provide sandy access to viewing areas.

Tips for Visitors

Sun Protection

Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—the park offers limited shade.

Footwear

Sand, gravel, and paved paths coexist—wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.

Stay Hydrated

Water refill stations are available; reusable bottles recommended.

Plan Your Trip Today

Don’t miss your chance to witness the world’s finest sand sculptors and enjoy five and a half weeks of family‑friendly fun on Vancouver Island’s sun‑drenched shores. Mark your calendar, book your stay, and prepare for a summer spectacle that only Parksville Beach Festival can deliver!
For the full schedule, artist profiles, and ticketed events, visit the official website for more information: parksvillebeachfest.com

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