There are few summertime activities that are more quintessential than building a sandcastle at the beach. The activity has grown so popular that there are now numerous sandcastle contests and celebrations all around the United States--here are a few of the very best.
Sandcastle Day, held in early June in Cannon Beach, Oregon for about 50 years now, really shows off the Beaver State at its best. Contests take place in several age divisions, and some truly talented craftspeople show off their creativity. The setting, along some of the prettiest shoreline in the United States, is ruggedly spectacular.
While not a massive affair, the Sand Castle and Sand Sculpture Contest at Alameda, California's Crown State Beach has been around for over four decades. The free early-June event is a great excuse to head out to the island of Alameda, a part of the Bay Area that many have yet to explore.
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire is host to the Master Sand Sculpting Competition, where competing is done via "invitation only." Some of the most heralded sand sculptors in the country attend this event, which includes beachside lighting for nighttime viewing, as well as a fireworks display.
The Annual Sand Sculpture Contest at Grand Haven, Michigan's City Beach takes place the last Saturday in June and has been a favorite event in the region for more than a quarter-century. Contest categories include those for groups, families and individuals, and the Lake Michigan locale has some excellent camping available to boot.
Held in late June, the AIA Sandcastle Competition at Galveston, Texas' East Beach is the site of some seriously impressive castles. Hosted by the American Institute of Architects Houston Chapter, the contest is composed of dozens of architectural firms' teams, and the results are nearly mind-blowing as they compete for the Golden Bucket award.
Also in late June, the Sand & Sawdust Festival in Ocean Shores, Washington is a unique treat with an unexpected twist for newcomers. In addition to the sandcastle fun, the event also attracts numerous "chainsaw artists" as well-resulting in a wild blend of both temporary and permanent creations for judges and visitors to savor.
The U.S. Open Sandcastle Competition in Imperial Beach, California goes well beyond super sandcastle building with it mid-July fest. The well-attended celebration also boasts 100 plus food and craft vendors, plus a wealth of family-friendly live musical acts, and thousands in cash are given away to the best castle creators.
The North American Sandsculpting Championship is just one of many events at the month-long Neptune Festival in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Visitors to the September festival can also enjoy a 5K run, surfing contest, wine festival, regatta and more.
