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Galveston Sandcastle Festival

Sand Sculptures, Live Music, Food Trucks, and a Full Weekend on the Beach

Every summer in Galveston, experience 25+ teams competing to win the prestigious Golden Bucket Award.

The Galveston Sandcastle Festival is a two-day beach event featuring one of the largest amateur sandcastle competitions in the world. More than 25 teams transform the sand into towering sculptures using only sand and water. The festival also includes live music, local food trucks, art vendors, a kid zone, and hands-on lessons with professional sandcastle builders.

Hosted in partnership with AIA Houston and La Izquierda Fest.

Date(s): Sept 19-20, 2026
Location: East Beach, Galveston, TX

Event Details
Festival - Need to Know

About Galveston Sandcastle Festival

The Galveston Sandcastle Festival is a two-day beach event featuring one of the largest amateur sandcastle competitions in the world plus live music, local food trucks, art vendors, a kid zone, and hands-on lessons with professional sandcastle builders.

Hosted in partnership with the American Institute of Architects and La Izquierda Fest.

What to Expect

  • Dozens of large-scale sand sculptures
  • Live performances by local musicians
  • Food trucks, drinks, and local vendors
  • Interactive kids’ zone and free sandcastle lessons
  • Paid cabana rentals near the event area
  • Coastal views and a lively beach setting
  • SUNDAY; 11AM - Beachside Bloody Mary Battle. Vote for the best in town!

Getting There

  1. East Beach is located at the far eastern end of Galveston Island.
  2. Drive east on Seawall Blvd past Stewart Beach.
  3. Turn right onto Apffel Rd. and follow signs to East Beach.

OR

SATURDAY ONLY: Skip the lines and ride the shuttle from Stewart Beach just 2 miles away from all the fun!
Stewart Beach shuttle offers a shaded waiting area, access to an air-conditioned gift shop, and two continuous shuttles running every 15 minutes from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM, ensuring a breezy arrival and departure experience for all.

Accessibility

Free beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come basis. Ask at the gate upon arrival. Staff will meet you on the east side of the pavilion to assist. Chairs glide on sand and float in water but require someone to push them.

Know Before You Go

  • Parking is $15 per car and is required for entry
  • Cash and credit cards both accepted
  • Admission tickets must be purchased separately
  • Kids 12 and under are free
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and beach chairs
  • Sculptures are best viewed Saturday afternoon and early Sunday
  • Please do not touch the sandcastles

Is the event dog friendly?

We love our furry friends! If you decided to bring you dog, please make sure they remain on a leash.

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