Day 4 of Sand Sculpting Festival on the Beach
Scenes from the 23rd American Sand Sculpting Championship Festival on Fort Myers Beach on Friday morning.
The real action begins this afternoon when the Master Sculptors begin serious work on their sculptures. Festival attendees can purchase a Master’s View pass which offers a fenced-off viewing for the following daily rates: children and seniors are $3 each; adults cost $5 each; and a family package (parent(s) with children) is $10 per day. The fee structure is also for attendance inventory (helpful for future use in getting sponsorships and Tourist Development Council dollars) and to make sure that the high level of competition continues.
“The quality of the sculpture is going to be so much better than most anyone has ever seen before,” said Corning. “Only the Master Sculptor pieces will be inside the admission area. You’ll be able to see through the fencing, but if you really want to see these pieces, it’s worth the cost. The reason is to ensure this competition will continue in the future.”
According to Corning, much of the events activities will be free. There is also a chance to get your photo in front of a personalized sand sculpture.
“The sculptors are going to create a photo-opportunity area where people can come and stand with the sculpture and get their picture taken,” said Corning. “There should be four sand sculptures: one is a heart and flowers for people who are getting engaged or celebrating an anniversary; the second is a happy birthday castle for birthday wishes; another is a dolphin and a star for children; and a fourth one will have a holiday theme for Christmas card photos.”
Due to no parking at event locations, free parking and a free shuttle service are available just north of Lover’s Key State Park’s entrance with the best access via Bonita Beach Road. Park-and-ride accommodations are also offered at Summerlin Square at 11418 Summerlin Square Drive (Winn-Dixie Plaza) for those attending from east of the Beach.