Discounted advance tickets are now on sale for the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce’s 36th Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship November 19–23 at DiamondHead Beach Resort. Advance general admission tickets are $8 per person They are $10 at the gate. Purchase tickets HERE. Family packs and weekend packs are also available.
This year’s championship celebrates America’s 250th birthday with the theme “Stars, Stripes & Sand: Sculpting the American Story.”
Fort Myers Beach will once again welcome world-class Master and Advanced Amateur sand sculptors for five days of artistry, competition and family-friendly entertainment. Twenty-nine sculptors are participating, including 12 Master sculptors and 12 Advanced Amateur sculptors, representing 10 states and five countries. The 2026 sculptor roster includes artists from the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands and England.
Guests can watch the sculptors transform ordinary beach sand into extraordinary works of art and enjoy a full lineup of activities throughout the event. In addition to the professional competition, the championship will feature an Amateur Sand Sculpting Competition, more than 80 vendors, food and beverage vendors, live entertainment, hands-on sand sculpting lessons, professional sand sculpting demonstrations, Quick Sand speed-sculpting shows and a dedicated sand play area for children.
The event will be held on the beach behind DiamondHead Beach Resort and the neighboring Estero Island Beach Club at 2000 Estero Blvd. Event hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, November 19–23. The weekend will feature Master and Advanced Amateur competition, the Amateur Sand Sculpting Competition, demonstrations, entertainment and family activities.
On Sunday, November 22, People’s Choice voting will close, and the People’s Choice winner will be announced along with the awards ceremony. Monday, November 23, will offer visitors a final opportunity to view the completed sculptures, along with plein air and other art activities presented by the Fort Myers Beach Art Association.
Last year’s championship drew more than 15,000 attendees, and the 2026 event is expected to attract visitors and residents to experience one of Fort Myers Beach’s signature annual events. With its combination of extraordinary sand art, competition, demonstrations, entertainment and activities for all ages, the championship offers a unique celebration of creativity and community on the beach.
Volunteers Needed!
Community volunteers play an important role in making the American Sand Sculpting Championship a success. Volunteer positions are still available, and individuals, families, groups and community organizations are encouraged to get involved.
Whether assisting guests, supporting event operations or helping behind the scenes, volunteers are an essential part of bringing five days of sand, creativity and community spirit to Fort Myers Beach.
Sign up HERE.
Amateur Sand Sculpting Competition
The Amateur Sand Sculpting Competition will take place Saturday, November 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with awards at 4 p.m. Registration is $10 per person/sculptor, and participation is limited to 20 plots on a first-come, first-served basis.
For the complete event schedule, sculptor lineup, parking information, Amateur Competition details, vendor information and event updates, visit www.fmbsandsculpting.com.
The American Sand Sculpting Championship is proudly presented by the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with The Sand Lovers, LLC, and DiamondHead Beach Resort.
Jacki Liszak, President & CEO, Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce: “Stars, Stripes & Sand: Sculpting the American Story gives us an opportunity to celebrate not only the incredible talent of our sculptors, but also the stories, traditions and spirit that bring us together as Americans. Join us this November as we celebrate together, create magical works of art and make lasting memories. See you on the sand!”
Stay connected with the American Sand Sculpting Championship:
Instagram: @americansandsculpting
Facebook: facebook.com/
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