Fort Myers Beach Sand Sculpting Championship Returns Nov. 20-24 With 26 Artists and Nightly Concerts

The 35th annual American Sand Sculpting Championship will bring 26 sculptors to Fort Myers Beach on Nov. 20-24 behind the Diamondhead Beach Resort. The competition has doubled its event space from last year.

Last year's comeback drew thousands after a five-year pause.

"It was over-the-top successful," said Bill Knight, according to News-Press. "I think people are just ready to be done with the hurricane stuff. I think that's a big part of it."

Knight sculpts sand for a living. He and his wife, Marianne, manage the competition together. They watched thousands pour through the gates in 2024. The event stopped due to COVID-19 and Hurricane Ian.

This year brings 10 master sculptors from across the world, a jump from 18 total artists in 2024. Crews haul in roughly 200 tons of extra sand each year.

Live music will run 5-8 p.m. Thursday through Sunday under the entertainment tent.

Visitors can watch sand-sculpting demonstrations and amateur contests. A vendor village offers shopping. Food will be sold, with Cabanas Beach Bar and Grill serving during concerts.

The championship opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday at 2000 Estero Blvd. Monday is viewing only, with sculptors taking the day off. 

Tickets are $5. The event is rain or shine.