Castles on the Beach

You’ve made the rounds of every splash pad in the city, hit the beaches, the parks and taken a tour through some of Toronto’s secret gardens…and it’s still July. Now what?

Maybe it’s time to venture out and explore some fun-in-the-sun a short drive or train ride out of the city. Pack the kids’ swimsuits and shovels, smooth on the sunscreen and road-trip-it to the Cobourg’s 5th Annual Sandcastle Festival held this July 31 and August 1 at Victoria Park Beach (just an hour’s drive from TO).

The two-day, fun-filled festival is focused around master sand sculptors who will be competing to build truly awe-inspiring creations—from creatures to castles—in the sand. Anyone who has ever picked up a shovel will be amazed, but you don’t have to be a professional sandman to get in on the action. Families and youth under 14 can form teams to compete in their own categories (though spaces are limited, so call 1-888-262-6874 or email tourism@cobourg.ca soon to see if spots are still available). As participants can only use the existing sand and water, pack up the tools and sand toys if you are thinking about registering.

Once you are done admiring the creativity that can be conjured up using only sand and water, the kids will love the range of other fun activities available at the festival, including inflatable fun with jumpy castles, and 20-foot long slip ‘n slides, a scavenger hunt, arts and crafts, swimming, and an all day DJ on the beach. Downtown Cobourg is a block from the beach, and a farmers’ market, sidewalk sale and other kids’ attractions will be running throughout both days of the festival. 

Unlimited access wristbands (so kids can participate in all the fun) are only $5 per person and are available at the registration tent at the Sandcastle Festival and downtown Cobourg during the sidewalk sale. 

The awards for best sculptures are awarded at 4 pm on July 31, and for those kids old enough to stay awake—or those lucky enough to have babies or toddlers who can fall asleep anywhere—a perfect day on the beach ends with a family movie at dusk. 

Sun, surf, sand, swimming, sidewalks sales, snuggling under a blanket watching a movie on the beach…summer can’t possibly get better than this.