The Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest in June is one of dozens of summertime events that make for family fun on Oregon's North Coast.

Cannon Beach will host its 53rd annual Sandcastle Contest Saturday, June 17, the oldest competition of its kind in the Pacific Northwest and the most popular event in this Oregon Coast town. Dozens of teams of professional sand sculpture artists, amateur groups and families will construct remarkable creations in the sand during the event. The Masters division teams compete for cash prizes and construct large, elaborate creations often utilizing construction forms similar to those used for pouring concrete in order to accomplish their monumental size,

Weekend activities include a parade, beach bonfire with live music and 5K fun run and walk. Judging of the sandcastles begins at noon this year, making 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the best time for viewing the completed sculptures. The tide will determine how long the sculptures last.

In 2014, the Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest was recognized as an Oregon Heritage Tradition by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, one of just 11 events statewide to achieve such a designation. An Oregon Heritage Tradition is an event with broad public appeal, with at least 50 years of continuous operation and that contributes to the identity of the state.

The Sandcastle Contest is the only day of the year when the beach is used for parking to accommodate the large crowds. For information on the Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest or information on how to participate, contact the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce at (503) 436-2623. For lodging information, visit cannonbeach.org.