The granddaddy of Gulf Shores festivals returns this week and the Sand Sculpture Contest will take place on Saturday. Who can resist a smorgasbord of shrimp dishes, live music and the most creative sand sculptures on the beach?

The Annual Sand Sculpture Contest presented by Sand Castle University & Suncoast Beach Service is held on the Saturday of the festival at the west end of the beach at the public beach access. Seating for spectators is provided by Suncoast Beach Service. Sand Castle demonstrations by Sand Castle University.

Registration and building begins at 11:00am. Judging of the sculptures will begin at 3:00pm. This is a family-oriented event for appropriate sand sculptures. Coloring of the sand is not permitted at the beach.

Sand sculpting tools as well as professional advice will be made available by Sand Castle University during competition hours.

Age Categories - Max of 4 per team:

• 5 - 10 years
• 11 - 15 years
• 16 years & up – Adult
• Family (all ages)​ - If you wish to help your child/children please enter the “Family” category.

Prizes for each category:

• Winner: Cash Prize, (1) Sand Sculpture Trophy per team, (1) ribbon & (1) poster per team member (limit 4)
• 2nd Place: (1) Ribbon & (1) poster per team member (limit 4)
• 3rd Place:  (1) Ribbon & (1) poster per team member (limit 4)​
• Honorable Mention: (1) Ribbon & (1) poster per team member (limit 4)

WANT TO SEE MORE SAND SCULPTURING:

Sand Castle University will be on-site with live demonstrations.

Thursday: Sponsor logo demonstration by Sand Castle University. Viewing only.

Friday: Free sand castle classes at 1:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:00 p.m. lasting roughly an hour. Participants are based on a first-come, first serve basis. All tools and training provided.