The Wildwoods, NJ – June 26, 2025 – Families, friends, and kids of all ages: Head to the beach to play in the sand at Heather Road in Wildwood Crest during the 13th annual Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This amateur and semi-pro sand sculpting contest is free for all participants and spectators and it is a rain or shine event.
The Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival transforms the beach into a stunning display of artistic talent and creativity. Held each summer, the festival attracts talented sand sculptors from all over the world to create intricate and breathtaking works of art using nothing but sand and water.
Visitors can stroll along the shoreline, marveling at the impressive sculptures ranging from detailed animals and famous landmarks to imaginative, whimsical designs.
In addition to the main competition, the festival offers hands-on opportunities for attendees of all ages and skill levels to try their hand at sand sculpting, participate in workshops, and enjoy live music and family-friendly activities. With its coastal atmosphere and awe-inspiriting creations, the Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival is a highlight of the Jersey Shore summer.
This amateur and semi-pro sand sculpting contest is hosted by professional world-renowned sand sculptor Matt Long, a former cast member of the Travel Channel’s SandMasters, and “Can You Dig It!” Sand Tools. Long’s career in sand sculpting began right here in South Jersey at amateur events like this one. Matt Long will begin sculpting his design on Tuesday, July 8. The public is welcome and encouraged to follow his progress each day.
Participants in the pro-am division will begin their sculptures one day earlier, on Thursday, July 10. Registration for the contest is FREE and will be held at 8:30 a.m. on the day of the event. The first 100 registrants are guaranteed a free official event T-shirt. All others will receive a T-shirt as supplies last.
Sculptures will be judged on creativity, execution, composition, and overall presentation. Prizes and awards will be presented to the top three winners in each division. There will also be a People’s Choice Award for Best on the Beach, where the winner is selected by spectator ballot. To ensure a level playing field, the contest will have six separate divisions ranging from solo youth and youth groups to solo adult and adult teams.
For additional information, call 609-523-0202 or visit www.WildwoodCrest.org.
For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.
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