Several sand sculptures damaged by vandals ahead of Parksville Beach Festival opening

One of Vancouver Island’s biggest summer events has suffered a setback.

Just days before the biggest event opens to the public, organizers of the Parksville Beach Festival say several sand sculptures were damaged in what they believe was an act of vandalism.

The incident is believed to have occurred Saturday night, forcing sculptors to spend valuable time repairing their creations before the official opening of the Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition on Monday.

“We are incredibly saddened that the hard work of our sculptors, volunteers and staff was affected in this way,” said Cheryl Dill, President of the Parksville Beach Festival Society.

According to organizers, the damage impacted several entries in this year’s competition, with artists now working to restore the sculptures so visitors can enjoy them throughout the festival’s five-week run.

“This festival is built on community spirit,” Dill said.

“The best way to support our artists, volunteers and everyone who makes this festival possible is to visit the Exhibition, celebrate these incredible works of art and show our sculptors that their hard work is valued and appreciated.”

The society is asking anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has information about the incident to contact the Parksville Beach Festival Society by email or at (250) 951-2678, or reach out to local authorities.

A reward is being offered for information leading to the identification of those responsible.

Organizers also confirmed security is on site and they are working to better understand exactly what happened.

Known locally as BeachFest, the annual event is one of Vancouver Island’s signature summer festivals, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

The 2026 Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition ran from July 9th to 12th, with the exhibition opening Monday, July 3th and continuing through August 16th.

This year’s theme is Beauties & Beasts.

The festival takes place at Parksville Community Park and Beach and also features weekend concerts, daily buskers, family activities and the popular evening illumination of the sand sculptures on select weekends.