What sets the Cobourg Sandcastle Festival apart from a typical day at the beach is the incredible scale and detail of the sculptures. Visitors can expect imaginative scenes inspired by pirate ships, underwater worlds, and jungle adventures, all sculpted entirely from sand.
Among this year’s returning artists is professional sand sculptor Sandi Sterling. Also known as Sandi Castle, alongside a talented lineup of veteran sculptors who have spent years turning sand into remarkable works of art.
The festival isn’t just for professional sculptors. Families, businesses, and young artists can also compete for prizes by creating their own sand sculptures. Registration opens in the morning, with judging taking place in the afternoon after hours of building.
Festival Highlights
Families can also enjoy an inflatable park, where kids can play all day with the purchase of a wristband. Adults can take their time exploring the impressive sand sculptures.
Beyond the sculptures, the festival features food trucks and vendors, a beach DJ, family entertainment, and a free outdoor screening of Lilo & Stitch on Saturday evening. Free shuttle buses also run from the mall and community centre, making it easy to avoid the limited parking near the beach.
Bring the whole family, pack a beach chair, and leave yourself plenty of time to explore. The incredible sand sculptures are worth lingering over.
The Details
- Dates: Friday, August 7 (master sculptors begin building) and Saturday, August 8, 2026 (official festival day)
- Location: Victoria Beach and Victoria Park, Cobourg, Ontario
- Admission: Free to attend; amateur sand sculpting competition registration is $5 per participant
- Highlights: Master sand sculptors, amateur sandcastle competition, community sandcastle, inflatable park, family entertainment, food vendors and trucks, and a free outdoor screening of Lilo & Stitch
- Getting there: Free shuttle service is available. Visitors are encouraged to park downtown, where municipal parking is free for up to three hours
