30th Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship sifts into Fort Myers Beach; 10-day event begins today
The sand on Fort Myers Beach is useful for more than just laying on” – especially for a master sand sculptor.
The 10-day American Sand Sculpting Championship returns to Fort Myers Beach for the 30th year, beginning today through Sunday, Nov. 27, open from 10 a.m.to 5 p.m. Sculptors from around the world will gather at the beach at the Wyndham Garden Hotel to shape our white sand into masterpieces.
The event brings in around 40,000 throughout the week, said Bud Nocera, Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce president.
“It’s one of the signature events for all of southwest Florida,” he said.
Sixteen sculptors will make more than 40 creations. More than 40 vendors have reserves a space at the festival, which includes live music and even sand sculpting lessons for the public.
The first weekend is the competition and awards for the solo master sculptor competition. The second weekend, teams of two try their skills. The championship also includes an advanced amateur competition.
Parking near the event is limited; attendees can park at Lovers Key State Park and take a free shuttle to and from the Wyndham. Admission is $7, children 4 years old and under are free. To celebrate the event’s 30th year on Fort Myers Beach, a VIP experience in the Seminole Casino Hotel Paradise Pavilion is available for advance purchase of $40 a person a day for all-you-can-eat menu, open bar and a beer garden. Tickets are available at bigcevents.com/events.