A man riding a rocket. An eyeball. The inner workings of a clock. The Viking King’s helmet-clad head. If last year’s artists are any indication of the extraordinary talent you’ll see at the Siesta Key Crystal Classic, be prepared to be amazed. Besides, what says “beach vacation” is better than an international sand sculpting festival?
Stunning Siesta Key is a well-loved destination for sun, sand, and relaxation on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. A barrier island near the mainland city of Sarasota, this thin strip of land is lined with white-sand beaches, drawing tourism from around the globe.
But it’s not only the powdery sand that’s a magnet for sun-seeking vacationers. Siesta Key’s fabulous dining, beachside bars, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly events and activities are all part of the draw. This popular vacation destination has an appeal that transcends generations.
If you’re looking for things to do near Siesta Key in the fall, don’t miss the Crystal Classic, an incredible competition that will leave you in awe. Be sure to book your fall Siesta Key vacation rentals around this inspiring competition right here on our shores.
Siesta Key Crystal Classic
Each year in November, artists from around the globe meet on the shores of Siesta Key for a world-famous competition, sculpting carefully designed works of sand art before judges and spectators. Drawing crowds of nearly 40,000 people in the past, the event takes place on Siesta Beach, a popular beach in the middle of the island. Siesta Beach is about a five-minute drive or half-hour walk from luxurious vacation rentals at Crystal Sands vacation rentals.
Watch as two dozen competitors build, carve, and smooth the sand, their designs coming to life before your eyes. Be sure to visit the sculptures on Saturday after sunset, when they’ll be lit by colored lights.
In addition to sand sculpting, spectators can enjoy daily live music and fun activities for both kids and adults. Bands play sets throughout the day, including Philharmonic Band, Kettle of Fish, John Patti Project, and Tropical Ave.
Watch professional sculptors demonstrate their skills or take a lesson to learn some of their techniques. Practice your new skills as you build your sand castle empire while staying at our Siesta Key condo rentals or test them under pressure at one of the many “Quick Sand” competitions throughout the festival, an ongoing contest where speed and skill are judged.
When it’s time for a break from the sun, check out the party tent, where you’ll be greeted by music and a cold drink, (no entry fee required). Or, take a stroll through the “Vendor Village,” where several food trucks and more than 80 retailers will be set up throughout the four days.
Feeling competitive? Sign up to participate in the amateur competition on Saturday, Nov.11, a chance for all to try their hand at sand sculpture-making in a fun, family-friendly environment. Participate on your own or in a group of up to five people — the perfect activity for young families and competitive groups of friends.
Competition categories include “hatchlings” for one or two children under 10, “loggerheads” for single competitors or teams of two aged 11 to 17, “turtle bale” for groups of up to five, and “solo leatherbacks,” a single sculptor 18 and older.
Bring your own tools and begin designing at 10 a.m., while master sculptors evaluate the beauty and integrity of your work. Winners, who receive a small cash prize, are announced at 4 p.m.
The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Sunday, and Monday, with extended hours on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Teams and Solo Artists
Sculptors can compete on their own or in a team of two, with a first, second, and third place in each. This year, eight solo artists and eight teams will create works of art out of the granular mineral material known as sand.
This year’s artists hail from across the United States, as well as Canada, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, and the Netherlands.
Competitor Yoshiko Matsugi was born and raised in Kochi of Shikoku Island in Japan, which is known for similarly beautiful beaches. She holds a master’s degree from the Tokyo University of Art and has traveled the world as a professional sand sculptor. American competitor Carl Jara describes himself as a “simple guy” who works as an exhibit creator for the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and, of course, as a sand sculptor. His personal life is reflected in his work, winning him many medals in competitions around the world.
Father-son duo Ian and Matthew Deibert have a track record as a winning team. In 2012, they won “Sand Wars” and were featured on the Travel Channel, and, in 2018, they won the People’s Choice award at the Virginia Beach International Championships. These New Jersey natives are a team to watch at the 2023 Crystal Classic.
The winners of the timed competition will be announced on Sunday afternoon. In addition to the professional judging, visitors can vote for their favorite sculpture for the People’s Choice award. Voting closes at 5 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 13.
Tickets
This year’s competition takes place Nov. 10 to 13. So, if you’re staying with us at Siesta Key vacation rentals during that time, plan for a day, two, or four at the Siesta Key Crystal Classic for some fun in the sun and especially in the sand.
Tickets are available in advance online or at the gate on the day of the event. Attendees can pay for one day or buy a pass for all four, the best value. A one-day ticket ranges from $6 to $12, depending on age and other qualifications, while a four-day pass is $20 for kids and $40 for adults.
Some of the proceeds from the event will go to the Siesta Key Crystal Classic Scholarship Fund for Ringling College of Art and Design.
Parking is available nearby for $55 a day. Just bring your receipt on competition day for access to the VIP parking lot. Or, walk or bike from our nearby Siesta Key beachfront condos, and don’t forget your hat and sunscreen! The free, open-air trolley, which runs daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., is another good option for those looking to get around and see the sights at once. The trolley runs from Siesta Key Village to Turtle Beach, with plenty of stops along the way.
Plan Your Next Visit!
Are you ready to discover the perfect escape to paradise in Siesta Key? Browse our entire selection of rentals and find your match today!
Where To Stay
Stunning condos perfect for a week or two on the beach, our Siesta Key vacation rentals await. The island’s powdery sand is unmatched and its aquamarine waters are warm. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, bachelorette party, or fun family vacation, Crystal Sands has what you need for an incredible Florida holiday.
Our beautiful Siesta Key condo rentals boast breathtaking views, top-of-the-line appliances, and proximity to the ocean in a convenient, central location on the island. With plenty of activities and events year-round, as well as fun restaurants and cocktail bars in Siesta Key for evening entertainment, there’s never a dull moment on Siesta Key. So what are you waiting for? Book your stay with Crystal Sands today for a trip to remember.
