White Rock Sea Festival 2026, Dates, Events and Local Tips

1. A White Rock Tradition That Began in 1952

The first White Rock Sea Festival was held in July 1952. That means the festival is older than the City of White Rock itself, which was incorporated in 1957.

White Rock was already developing its reputation as a seaside destination in those early years. The beach, pier and railway brought visitors to the community, while local residents understood that the waterfront was more than a scenic backdrop. It was the gathering place that helped shape White Rock’s character.

The festival has changed considerably over 75 years. Past celebrations have included parades, waterfront entertainment, children’s sandcastle competitions, community groups, local vendors, fireworks and the crowning of Miss White Rock. Traditions have come and gone, but the central idea remains the same, bringing people together beside Semiahmoo Bay to celebrate summer and the community.

2. Why the Sea Festival Matters to the Community

Longtime residents may remember watching an earlier parade with their parents and later returning with their own children or grandchildren. New residents get an opportunity to experience a tradition that has helped define White Rock for generations.

The festival also gives local performers, artists, community organizations and businesses a chance to connect with residents and visitors. The vendor marketplace supports local makers, while nearby restaurants, cafés and shops benefit from one of the busiest weekends of the summer.

There is also value in simply creating a place where people can spend time together without needing to buy a ticket. With free entertainment and activities for different ages, the Sea Festival remains accessible to families, seniors, young people and visitors from throughout the Lower Mainland.

The pier, promenade, beach and hillside views are part of everyday life in White Rock, but the festival lets the community see these familiar places with fresh energy.

3. Confirmed Dates for the 2026 White Rock Sea Festival

The official dates are Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2, 2026.

Friday, July 31

The weekend begins with a free outdoor showing of Hoppers at Bayview Park. The park opens at 7 p.m., and the movie will begin at dusk. Visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and blanket.

Saturday, August 1

Saturday includes live music in Memorial Park, family activities in Bayview Park, the Indigenous Marketplace, environmental booths and the vendor marketplace along the West Beach promenade.

The Waiter’s Race begins at 7:45 p.m., followed by the Torchlight Parade at 8:30 p.m. The parade will travel along Marine Drive from Oxford Street toward Semiahmoo Park.

Sunday, August 2

Sunday brings more live entertainment, family activities and marketplace shopping. The Hot Rodz Car Show will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Bayview Lots, with awards presented at 3 p.m.

The weekend concludes with fireworks over Semiahmoo Bay at 10 p.m. The display can be viewed from many locations along the waterfront and from several hillside viewpoints.

4. Things to Do at the 2026 Sea Festival

There is enough happening to build an entire day around the festival.

1. Watch live music at Memorial Park. The P’Quals Main Stage will feature continuous entertainment. Saturday’s headliner is NTWINE, while Sunday features Totally Twain performing the music of Canadian country star Shania Twain.

2. Bring the children to Bayview Park. From noon to 5 p.m. on both days, activities include face painting, balloon twisting, mini golf, giant games and bouncy castles.

3. Explore the Indigenous Marketplace. Located toward P’Quals, the White Rock, the marketplace offers an opportunity to meet Indigenous artists and vendors. Visitors can also learn about environmental initiatives and enjoy performances from School of Rock.

4. Browse the waterfront vendors. The marketplace runs along the West Beach promenade from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days.

5. Cheer on the Waiter’s Race. This lighthearted local favourite puts servers from area restaurants through an obstacle course while balancing their trays.

6. Find a spot for the Torchlight Parade. The Saturday evening parade is one of the festival’s most recognizable traditions. Arrive well before the 8:30 p.m. start if you want a good view along Marine Drive.

7. See the new Hot Rodz Car Show. Car enthusiasts can visit the Bayview Lots on Sunday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

8. Stay for the fireworks. Sunday’s 10 p.m. finale is a memorable way to finish the weekend, with the display reflected across Semiahmoo Bay.

5. What to Bring

White Rock can feel warm during the afternoon and surprisingly cool once the sun goes down. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a refillable water bottle. Comfortable shoes are important because activities are spread across the waterfront and your parking spot may be some distance away.

For the movie, parade or fireworks, consider bringing a folding chair or blanket. A light sweater or jacket is also useful when the evening breeze comes off the water.

Most importantly, bring an empty stomach. Part of the fun is stopping for fish and chips, seafood, ice cream, coffee or a meal at one of the many locally owned restaurants along Marine Drive. Restaurants are likely to be busy, so consider eating a little earlier than usual or making a reservation where available.

6. Parking, Transit and Getting Around

Parking near the waterfront will be limited, particularly before the Saturday parade and Sunday fireworks. Arriving early is the simplest option.

Paid parking will be available at the Semiahmoo Park lot and in waterfront lots east and west of the pier. The small lot at the head of the pier will be closed for festival use. The West Beach Parkade at Vidal Street and Victoria Avenue has 180 spaces with hourly and all day parking options.

The City recommends carpooling. Walking, cycling or taking transit from Uptown may be less stressful than parking near Marine Drive. TransLink routes 361 and 362 connect Uptown with the waterfront, although detours are expected. There will not be a trolley or courtesy shuttle.

Road closures will be in place for the Torchlight Parade, so drivers should check the City of White Rock’s official festival page and TransLink alerts before leaving home. Give yourself extra time and expect a slower trip away from the waterfront after the fireworks.

7. A Celebration That Feels Like White Rock

The White Rock Sea Festival has lasted because it reflects the place where it is held. It is relaxed, community focused and built around the waterfront. Its 75th anniversary is also a chance to appreciate the residents, volunteers, businesses, performers and community organizations that have kept the tradition alive.

If you are looking for something to do over the August long weekend, bring your family, sunscreen, a comfortable pair of shoes and an empty stomach. Then take your time walking the promenade and enjoy one of White Rock’s longest standing summer traditions.

Event times and transportation details can change. Before attending, confirm the latest schedule and road information on the City of White Rock’s official Sea Festival page.