One of Cobourg’s biggest summer traditions is returning to Victoria Park this weekend as the annual Sandcastle Festival takes over the waterfront once again.
Now in its 18th year, the festival has grown into one of the community’s most recognizable events, drawing visitors from across Ontario to the beach each summer.
Jackie Chapman-Davis says the event has become a fixture of the summer season.
Nine master sculptors will take part in this year’s festival, including several returning artists and some newcomers from outside Canada. The sculptors will begin preparing their creations throughout the week before unveiling their finished work for festivalgoers on Saturday.
Residents who want to put their own creativity to the test can participate in the festival’s amateur competition.
Participants can register online ahead of time or sign up on the day of the event. Registration costs between five and 10 dollars, and prizes from local businesses will be awarded.
Organizers are encouraging visitors to arrive early and take advantage of the free shuttle service operating from the Northumberland Mall and the Cobourg Community Centre beginning at 10 a.m.
The festival schedule includes evening entertainment and an outdoor screening of Lilo & Stitch, sponsored by The Mortgage Centre Cobourg and the Mistral Group.
New this year will be tethered hot air balloon rides sponsored by RE/MAX. Visitors can enter a draw for the rides by participating in a community scavenger hunt that begins at the tourism hub at 35 Albert Street.
The sand sculptures will remain on display through Sunday before the beach is restored to its usual layout.
Chapman-Davis says the festival remains an important event for both residents and visitors.
The Sandcastle Festival takes place Saturday at Victoria Park.
