Dana Point Times

The two-weekend 43rd annual Dana Point Festival of Whales kicks off in just two weeks, celebrating the more than 10,000-mile migration of the California gray whale.
With the festival comes four days of events for the entire family highlighting the area’s offerings, beach culture, environmental conservation and of course, one of the world’s largest mammals.
On Sunday, March 2, OC Parks hosts a beachside contest for families, friends, school groups and all sand enthusiasts.
The annual Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition at Baby Beach opens at 8 a.m. with judging beginning at 2:30 p.m. Contestants are encouraged to keep creations within ocean subjects, including whales, ocean creatures, pirates and ships, surfing and tropical paradise themes.
Prizes will be awarded to first- through fourth-place finishers.
Pre-registration is available through Wednesday, Feb. 26 by emailing steve.bonhall@ocparks.com. Entry is free. Visit www.ocparks.com for a printable registration form. Sand will be provided. Participants should provide their own buckets and tools.
During the contest, the Dana Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 will host its annual Whale of a Pancake Breakfast at the OC Sailing and Event’s Center, located at 34451 Ensenada Place, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. For more information, call 949.275.3142.
To find out more about the festival, visit www.festivalofwhales.com and check out next week’s issue of the Dana Point Times for the official event guide.
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