This Florida Beach Festival Features Incredible Sand Sculptures, Speed-Sculpting Shows, And More

By helitra·November 14, 2026·2 min read

On Florida’s Gulf Coast, building sandcastles is no idle pastime—and every November, some of the world’s most talented sand sculptors gather on Fort Myers Beach to prove it.

The 36th annual American Sand Sculpting Championship returns November 19 to 23, 2026, bringing five days of larger-than-life sand sculptures, sunny competition, and family-friendly festivities to the pristine shores of one of Southwest Florida’s best beaches.

A Sandcastle Competition Unlike Any Other

Credit: Courtesy of Fort Myers - Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods — *Credit: Courtesy of Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods*

We’ve all attempted castles and moats on a family beach vacation. But during this sandy annual extravaganza, visitors watch master and amateur artists transform ordinary beach sand into works of art, with creations far more intricate than anything most of us have dreamed up.

The 2026 event will bring together 29 sculptors from five countries, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands, and England. In honor of America’s 250th birthday, the theme of the 2026 competition is “Stars, Stripes & Sand: Sculpting the American Story” to encourage artists to celebrate our nation’s history, traditions, and spirit in their work.

There’s plenty to do at the festival beyond admiring the works in progress and completed creations. The festival features live entertainment, more than 80 vendors, professional demonstrations, and “Quick Sand” speed-sculpting shows. Visitors can even try their hand at sand sculpting during hands-on lessons, and there’s a dedicated sand play area for little ones.

And, of course, there’s a lot to love about Fort Myers outside the competition.

Feeling competitive? An amateur sand sculpting competition on Saturday, November 21, invites aspiring artists to put their skills to the test. Then, on Sunday, spectators can help choose their favorite creation through the People’s Choice competition.

How To Attend

*Credit: Courtesy of Fort Myers Beach Chamber*

The American Sand Sculpting Championship takes place on the beach behind DiamondHead Beach Resort and the neighboring Estero Island Beach Club, with festivities running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Admission is free on Thursday, November 19. For the remaining days, tickets cost $8 in advance or $10 at the gate, with family and weekend packages also available.

For tickets, parking information, and the full schedule, visit fmbsandsculpting.com.

Read the original article on Southern Living

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