Birch Bay Hosts Two Summer Traditions August 1 to 2
43rd Annual Sand Sculpture Competition & 12th Annual Rollback Weekend Car Show
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy a full weekend of family-friendly entertainment, creativity, classic cars, and community spirit during the 43rd Annual Sand Sculpture Competition and 12th Annual Rollback Weekend Car Show, taking place August 1–2, 2026, at Birch Bay Beach Park.
The weekend kicks off Saturday, August 1, with the Sand Sculpture Competition presented by WECU. Check-in and registration begin at 9:00 a.m., with teams of all ages and skill levels transforming the beach into a temporary outdoor art gallery. The event has grown into one of Birch Bay's most anticipated summer traditions, with nearly 70 teams participating during last year's record-setting competition.
Visitors can enjoy live entertainment throughout the day from the Ian Dodson Steel Drum Band and Jenn-X, while competitors sculpt everything from whimsical creations to intricate masterpieces using nothing more than sand, water, and imagination.
On Sunday, August 2, the focus shifts from sand to chrome as the Rollback Weekend Car Show takes center stage. Celebrating the rich nostalgia and automotive heritage of Birch Bay, the event features classic cars, custom vehicles, hot rods, trucks, and specialty vehicles from across the Pacific Northwest.
To provide participants additional time to arrive and prepare their displays, registration and check-in procedures have been adjusted for 2026. Vehicle registration and check-in will begin at 7:00 a.m., with the show officially opening to the public from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Sunday's entertainment will feature popular regional rock band Category 5, providing the soundtrack for a day filled with classic cars and community fun.
Main stage entertainment throughout the weekend is presented by bp Cherry Point. A beer garden will also be open throughout the event weekend for guests ages 21 and older.
"We are excited to welcome both longtime participants and first-time visitors to Birch Bay Beach Park for two of our community's most cherished summer events," said Sacha Sanguinetti, Event Coordinator for the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce. "From the creativity of the Sand Sculpture Competition to the nostalgia and community atmosphere of Rollback Weekend, there is something for everyone."
Registration for both the Sand Sculpture Competition and Rollback Weekend Car Show is now open online at birchbaychamber.com or birchbaywa.org.
For registration information, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer opportunities, or event details, visit the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce website or contact the Chamber office.
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Funding Acknowledgment
This event is made possible in part by a Tourism Promotion Grant from Whatcom County, a Community Support Grant from Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2, and financial consideration from area businesses and organizations. Thank you!
About the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting tourism, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the quality of life in the Birch Bay community. Through community events, visitor services, business advocacy, and destination marketing, the Chamber works to showcase Birch Bay as a premier destination for residents and visitors alike.
About WECU
WECU is a member-owned financial cooperative serving Whatcom County and surrounding communities. Founded in 1936, WECU provides personal and business banking services while actively supporting local nonprofits, community events, education initiatives, and economic development efforts throughout the region.
About bp Cherry Point
bp Cherry Point is one of the largest energy facilities in the Pacific Northwest and a major employer in Whatcom County. Located near Blaine, the refinery produces transportation fuels and other products while supporting numerous community programs, educational initiatives, and nonprofit organizations throughout the region.
About Whatcom County Tourism
Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism supports tourism marketing and destination development efforts designed to increase overnight visitor stays and strengthen the local economy. Funding is provided through lodging tax assessments paid by visitors staying at participating accommodations throughout Whatcom County.
About Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 provides recreational programs, facilities, and community enrichment opportunities for residents of Blaine, Birch Bay, and surrounding areas. The District supports youth programs, community events, parks, recreation facilities, and quality-of-life initiatives throughout northern Whatcom County.
