-DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the return of the 36th Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship, taking place Nov. 19–23, 2026, on Fort Myers Beach. This year’s championship will celebrate the creativity, spirit and 250-year history of America with the theme “Stars, Stripes & Sand: Sculpting the American Story.”

Mark your calendars as Fort Myers Beach once again welcomes some of the nation’s top master and advanced amateur sand sculptors for a dazzling display of artistry, creativity and incredible craftsmanship. Through massive works of sand, sculptors will bring stories of America to life, creating an unforgettable experience that celebrates the people, places, symbols and spirit that make our country unique.

Matthew Deibert from Atlantic City, New Jersey shares some insight on his work to an inquisitive guest passing by. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

This much-anticipated event continues a beloved Fort Myers Beach tradition and celebrates the wonder and excitement that have made the American Sand Sculpting Championship a signature event for locals and visitors alike. Guests can experience breathtaking sand sculptures, watch talented artists transform ordinary beach sand into extraordinary works of art, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that defines Fort Myers Beach.

With limited hotel rooms and vacation rentals available, early reservations are highly recommended.
The American Sand Sculpting Championship is proudly presented by the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with The Sand Lovers, LLC, and DiamondHead Beach Resort.

Todd Pangborn from Jamestown, New York created a work where at the right time, the sun can be seen glowing through a hole in this sculpted head. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Bill Knight of The Sand Lovers shared, “Fort Myers Beach is a special piece of paradise. It’s a seven-mile-long island lined with beautiful sugar-sand beaches, perfect for building intricate, giant sandcastles. We are super excited about the response we are receiving from both the sculptor and spectator communities. We will have 29 sculptors on site, with twelve Master sculptors and twelve Advanced Amateur sculptors ready to compete. They hail from 10 states and 5 countries!”

The return of this beloved signature event to Fort Myers Beach is a testament to the resiliency and perseverance of this small island community. Even after the challenges the island has faced over the last five years, the community continues to rise stronger and eagerly anticipates welcoming back its most devoted fans.

-DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

“Stars, Stripes & Sand: Sculpting the American Story gives us an opportunity to celebrate not only the incredible talent of our sculptors, but also the stories, traditions and spirit that bring us together as Americans. Join us this November as we celebrate together, create magical works of art and make lasting memories. See you on the sand,” said Jacki Liszak, president & CEO, Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce.

To get more information and sign up for event updates, please visit www.fmbsandsculpting.com

Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are now available.
Stay connected with the American Sand Sculpting Championship on social media:

Instagram: @americansandsculpting
Facebook: facebook.com/AmericanSandSculpting
#VisitFMB #FMBSandSculpting #AmericanSandSculpting