43rd Annual Sand Sculpture Contest returns Saturday June 20, 2026.

We've got the beach, you bring the masterpiece!

Sun, sand, creativity, and community spirit return to the Lake Michigan shoreline as the 43rd Annual Grand Haven Sand Sculpture Contest takes place Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Grand Haven City Beach!

A longtime summer tradition in West Michigan, the beloved event invites participants of all ages to spend the day transforming ordinary sand into imaginative works of art ranging from whimsical castles and sea creatures to intricate large-scale sculptures and abstract creations.

The Competition

This year's contest which is divided into a 2hr short competition and a 4hr long competition will kick off at 10 a.m (Registrants will need to arrive at 9am). 

Judging will take place at noon for the short competition and 2pm for the long competition, with awards presented in multiple categories including individuals, grownups and youth groups comprised of little sculptors 12 and under.

Spectators will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite sculpture in the popular People’s Choice competition.

You don’t have to be a professional to take part in the Sand Sculpture Contest. While our Sand Pros will wow the crowd with their skill, this contest is really about participation. Families, kids, friends, and first-time sculptors bring just as much creativity and excitement to the beach. Whether your design is simple or ambitious, everyone has something to offer. 

Featuring Sand Pros and Live Demonstrations + 'Storm The Castle'

One of this year’s highlights is the return of professional sand sculptors The Sand Fanatics and The Sand Pirates, who will be offering live demonstrations and insight into professional sand sculpting techniques. This year Sand Fanatics will be attempting a large-scale castle build and participants and spectators alike will be invited to ‘storm the castle’ at the conclusion of the day, safely and playfully deconstructing the enormous build. 

Park-N-Ride

Spectators are invited to take in the festivities from along the shoreline and a free Harbor Transit Park-N-Ride shuttle will be available for those looking to observe and enjoy. Pickup and dropoff will be from Duneside Discovery Center, 1400 Wisconsin St, Grand Haven; leave your car and your parking worries behind and enjoy the brief but picturesque shuttle ride down to City Beach. Shuttle will begin at 10am. 

A Safe, Family-Friendly Day at the Beach 

We’re excited for a day full of creativity and fun, but safety is always a top priority. We’ll have flyers available, along with kids’ activities designed to encourage safe practices around the water. Please remember not to dig deeper than the shortest person’s knees in your group, stay hydrated, and follow all posted signs to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable day at the beach. The contest is a rain or shine event and will only be delayed or canceled in case of severe weather, such as lightning.

Sign Me Up!

Registration is currently open online through June 19, with limited day-of registration available onsite at 8:30am on the morning of the contest. Official 2026 contest t-shirts are also available for preorder during registration while supplies last.

REGISTER HERE

Event Details

📍 Grand Haven City Beach
📅 Saturday, June 20, 2026
⏰ Competition begins at 10 a.m.
🪣 Solo and team categories available
🌊 Spectators welcome

Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates or announcements.

Made Possible by Our Local Partners

We’re proud to work with several local businesses and organizations to help make this event possible.  Their support adds to the community spirit that makes the Sand Sculpture Contest so special, and we’re grateful to partner with them in bringing this event to life.