The world's largest non-professional sandcastle contest will be held on Sandy Hook beach (Havre-Aubert) from Friday, August 12, to Sunday, August 14.

Setting a new record last year with 500 builders and 15 000 visitors, which is more than the entire population of the Islands, the Concours de Châteaux de sable is offering everybody a chance to gather as a family or friends, and enjoy outdoor activities on one of the prettiest beaches of the archipelago.

Since its early days, this event has been a real success thanks to the hard work of the builders. It is under the theme "Hommage aux bâtisseurs" (a tribute to the builders) that we invite you to share a magical moment and admire the creative and extraordinary sculptures built with a great mix of white sand and sea water since 30 years. For the voting process, the jury method will be back this year, but a "Visitor's favorite" and a "Best animation" prize will be chosen by the public.

Once again this year, great surprises await you. Among those, we are delighted to welcome a new partner who will be joining our team of faithful supporters and offering great prizes: Air Canada. "Being the largest airline serving all Québec regions, we are proud to be a partner of this major tourist event and we value the opportunity to contribute to its success and outreach," declared David Rheault, manager of the relationship with the communities.

Since one of the partners of the event, Loto-Québec, was unable to be at the launch of the 30th edition, here's a note from Lucie Lamoureux, manager of societal commitment at Loto-Québec: "Partner of the Québécois' entertainment, Loto-Québec supports carrier events with social and economic impact in the community through its sponsorship program. We wish to thank our partners, including the Concours de Châteaux de sable des Îles, which allow us to contribute to the gatherings taking place all around the province."

Also, as Québecor has been renewing its partnership with us for 5 years now, you will find enclosed a note from Pierre Dion, president and CEO.

The Corporation des Châteaux de sable des Îles bought the largest inflatable tent in Canada, and since it was only delivered in October, its inauguration will be held on Friday, August 12, with the brand new show "Country 4Ever" that pays tribute to Shania Twain, Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks and Johnny Cash (a creation of Martin Fontaine, renown for Elvis Story). Other shows like "Les Frères Painchaud", "Stéphanie St-Jean et Travis Cormier", and "Tire le Coyote" will be part of the cultural programming. On site, there will also be some activities for children and local products available.

We are also very proud to receive the "Coup de coeur du grand jury" distinction at the Vivats 2016 and, this summer, we will be the first event on the Îles de la Madeleine to be certified by the Conseil Québécois des événements écoresponsables (CQEER) with the BNQ 9700-253 norm.

White sand, salt water, hands and smiles - here's the recipe for summer happiness on the Islands!

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Source :
Brigitte Boudreau, Events Coordinator
cell : 581-994-6477