The American Sand Sculpting Championships! – Shifting Sand into Spectacular Sculptures in 2021
No one can resist building a sandcastle during a day at the beach. But did you know some people turn sandcastle-building into an art form? At the American Sand Sculpting Championships, sand-sculpting artists push the limits of what sandcastle and sand-based art can be.
Set against the backdrop of gorgeous Fort Myers Beach, Florida, you won’t believe your eyes as you watch professionals and hobbyists work side-by-side to creature gorgeous works of art. It’s the perfect way to turn a regular day at the beach into an unforgettable experience.
What’s On the Docket
This sprawling competition lasts 10 whole days, with a jam-packed schedule of world-renowned sand sculptors from across the globe going head-to-head in a series of competitions where they hone their craft and showcase their skills. With 16 sand-sculpting masters completing solo projects, 10 masters working in teams, and 10 advanced amateurs battling in the Florida State Championships, there’s plenty to see all festival long.
The American Sand Sculpting Championship is the biggest, most prestigious sand-sculpting event of its kind in the United States, making it a truly can’t-miss occasion. There are no glue or molds allowed. Artists must rely solely on sand and water to form their creations.
The event blends the appeal of a day at an art gallery and an afternoon at the beach, enjoying the artistry before you while you wiggle your toes in the sand and enjoy beachside treats. What could be better?
Why Fort Myers Beach?
Gorgeous Fort Myers Beach boasts a long, 7-mile stretch of white sand. But it’s more than just a beautiful backdrop to this sand-sculpting event. The sand’s moisture content has the perfect consistency for packing and shaping, making Fort Myers Beach the ideal location for a competition of this kind. Just like a painter needs the right brushes and paint to create a masterpiece, the sand of Fort Myers Beach provides the right canvas so sand sculptors can create their best work.
Not to mention the soft, fine texture of the sand makes it especially lovely to relax in and walkthrough. It feels good beneath your feet and looks great in a sandcastle!
Building Up the Competition
Instead of a regular art exhibition where you simply show up and admire finished art pieces, at the American Sand Sculpting Championships, you can actually watch the artists while they create their masterpieces. With sculpting demos and quick sand competitions, you’ll be able to see the entire creative process as competitors go from a pile of dry sand to a breathtaking sculpture. Grab a drink, nibble on a snack, and soak up the sunshine as artists’ work and sculptures take shape.
Pick your favorite and make your voice heard with people’s choice voting, adding a layer of audience participation to the sand sculpting championship experience. When the sculptures are done and the prizes have been handed out, make sure to take some time to snap some selfies! The larger-than-life sculptures make for some awesome, Instagram-worthy photo ops.
Get Inspired at the Amateur Competition
Every year, a special segment of the competition opens up for amateur sand artists, and it’s specially designed to be a learning opportunity and showcase event for beginners and advanced amateurs. Anyone at any level (except master and professional sand sculptors) can enter, and entrants can work in teams or on their own.
Since the artists are amateurs just like you and me, this provides a great chance to gather inspiration for your next sandcastle. Get inspired, gather ideas, and you might find yourself planning to enter next year!
Sand Under the Stars
Take to the beach in the evening for Sand Under the Stars, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view these beautiful works of art lit up under the night sky, giving you a chance to admire the sculptures in a more, well, colorful light. This event only happens one night of the year, so you won’t want to miss it. Be sure to grab tickets ahead of time!
Making A Day Of It
There’s so much more to the American Sand Sculpting Championships than just sandcastle-building, though. Onsite kids’ activities will capture little ones’ imaginations and let the kiddos get in on the creative energy.
Over the years, the sand sculpting championships have also become a celebration and exhibition of all local art forms. Browse the stalls of arts and crafts vendors, hunting for the best souvenir or your favorite piece of local art to take home with you. And throughout the event, make sure to pop by the music venue for live musical acts. Kick up your feet and enjoy the tunes as you soak up the local flavor.
And speaking of flavor, you’ll find plenty of it here. Take to the concessions stands for refreshing drinks and delicious beachside eats, then bring your treats back to the beach, lay down a towel, and get comfy on the sand. Just make sure you pick a spot with a good view of the artists at work – you’ll want a good vantage point to pick your favorite sculptures!
Planning Your Trip
You can snag an all-access pass for the day for just $8 or bring the whole family and save on admission with a family pass for $25. If you really want the full experience, spring for an exclusive VIP pass. The VIP pass includes complimentary food and beverages, a souvenir event t-shirt, and access to the private sand lounge, where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the best view of the artists while they work.
Since every sand sculpture can only stay standing for a short time, this annual competition is unique every single year. It has the makings for the most exciting day at the beach you’ve ever had.
What’s the most elaborate sandcastle you’ve ever built? Would you ever want to go pro, or would you rather stick to the sidelines? Chime in below!
Cover Image
Photo: Cayobo via Flickr
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