Diamond anniversary White Rock Sea Festival draws 50K
Published 2:00 pm Thursday, August 6, 2026
The 75th Diamond Anniversary of the White Rock Sea Festival brought more than 50,000 people to the waterfront from Friday, July 31 to Sunday, Aug. 2, according to city estimates.
“Celebrating 75 years of the White Rock Sea Festival was a special moment for our community,” Mayor Megan Knight commented.
“This Diamond Anniversary brought together residents, visitors, volunteers, performers, sponsors, and community partners for an unforgettable weekend on our waterfront.”
She offered thanks to all who helped make the celebration a success, while honouring a tradition that has “connected generations of our community.”
From a free Friday outdoor screening of the popular animated film Hoppers – presented by Fresh Air Cinema and community sponsors including Black Press special events and the White Rock BIA – to a spectacular fireworks display on Sunday night, the Sea Festival offered something for just about everyone.
Highlights included the ever-popular Saturday night Torchlight Parade along Marine Drive, featuring colourful floats, marching bands, performers and community groups.
But another popular Sea Festival highlight was the irresistible appeal of a large contingent of classic automobiles in the Westcoasters Car Club’s Hot Rodz Car Show – featured in previous years on Semiahmoo First Nation lands – which came to the parking lots west of Oxford Street, drawing thousands of appreciative passersby on Sunday morning and afternoon.
Live entertainment was, of course, another popular feature – with acts such as NTWINE and Totally Twain at the P’Quals Main Stage in Memorial Park, and local artists also featured at the ‘Busk Stop’ stage on the pier.
Family-friendly activities throughout the weekend included an Indigenous Marketplace; the vendor market along the promenade and environmental education booths.
Principal sponsors White Rock Honda and community partner the White Rock BIA were acknowledged by the city, as well as funding from the Government of Canada for the event.