The 2023 Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival is just weeks away! Come watch as master sand sculptors transform the Siesta Key beach into an outdoor art gallery. November 10th through the 13th, 2023.
The annual Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival has been drawing artists and their fans to Siesta Key since 2010. That very first Master Sand Sculpting Competition was such a rousing success that it sparked an annual tradition. Now, the four-day festival has grown to feature 24 master sand sculptors, live music, vendors, and a whole host of other fun activities and events. Last year’s event drew more than 30,000 attendees.
And why not? Siesta Key is a beautiful destination and the sand sculptures created at the festival never fail to startle and amaze. You’ll be shocked when you see how much control these master sculptors have over their medium. The artists and their teams have only 24 hours, spread out over four days, to create their masterpieces, some of which end up being over ten feet tall!
Best of all, the event is an easy, 30 minute drive from the door of your Banyan House Florida vacation rental in Venice, FL. Fantastic!
Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival 2023
This year’s event is scheduled for the weekend of November 10-13, 2023. Hours are 10am to 5pm on Friday, Sunday, and Monday and 10am to 9pm, Saturday.
Sculptors spend the weekend creating a large community sculpture, as well as working on one of the 8 solo or 8 team sculptures for the competition. The competition is timed and winners are announced Sunday afternoon at 3pm.
It’s not all just master sculptors working away on the beach, however. Attendees will also enjoy a variety of live bands, 80+ retail vendors, 5 food trailers, and the Barefoot Beach Bar Party Tent. There are daily Quick Sand Sculpting Competitions and even sand sculpting demos and lessons. Maybe you’re one of next year’s competitors and you didn’t even know it!
One of the most popular events of the weekend occurs Saturday evening, after sunset, when the sculptures are lit up with colored lights. You won’t believe your eyes. Don’t forget to cast your vote for best sculpture for the Peoples’ Choice award. What fun!
Spend the day marveling at the artistry in the sand, then it’s an easy drive back to the comforts of your Venice, FL vacation rental. Enjoy a soak in the pool, fire up the bbq, or head back out for a relaxing dinner and drinks. That sounds like the makings of a perfect day.
Visit the festival website for tickets and more information. You can also find this event on Facebook.