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Three of the 22 sand sculptures were damaged in an apparent case of vandalism on Parksville's waterfront. (Image Credit: Parksville Beach Festival Society)
Sculpture sabotage

Suspected vandalism damages Parksvillle sand sculptures

Jul 12, 2026 | 1:37 PM

PARKSVILLE — Artists are scrambling to restore damage to sand sculptures under construction as part of the popular Parksville Beach Festival’s sand sculpting competition.

A Parksville Beach Festival Society Sunday, July 12 news release stated several sculptures were damaged by suspected vandalism, requiring competitors to spend valuable time repairing their work rather than completing their creations.

“We are incredibly saddened that the hard work of our sculptors, volunteers and staff was affected in this way,” society president Cheryl Dill stated.

She told NanaimoNewsNOW that three doubles teams had their sculptures impacted, but stated as of early Sunday afternoon the damage was difficult to detect given the repairs that had been made.

An impacted artist restores damage on Sunday following an apparent vandalism spree at the annual sand sculpting competition in Parksville.
An impacted artist restores damage on Sunday following an apparent vandalism spree at the annual sand sculpting competition in Parksville. (Image Credit: Parksville Beach Festival Society)

“While this setback is disappointing, we know our community is stronger than one unfortunate act. 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,” Dill stated in the release.

Award winners will still be announced early Sunday evening, Dill confirmed.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Parksville Beach Festival Society at info@parksvillebeachfest.ca, 1-250-951-2678 or Oceanside RCMP at 250-248-6111.

Fourteen soloists and eight doubles teams are creating 22 world-class, high-quality sand sculptures at Community Park in Parksville, which will remain standing through mid-August.

Daily viewing of the sculptures within the enclosed area between is between 9:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., with a suggested donation of $5 per person.

NanaimoNewsNOW will have a recap of this year’s award winners and several pictures as part of an article to be published early Monday morning.

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info@nanaimonewsnow.com

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