NewsThe Suncoast PostOctober 29, 2026Sarasota County
Siesta Key Crystal Classic 2026 Scheduled for November 13–16 at Siesta Beach
Photo: The Suncoast Post
The Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sandsculpting Festival returns to Siesta Beach from Friday, November 13, through Monday, November 16, 2026, featuring 24 international sand sculptors, competitions, vendors, and evening lighting displays. Advance tickets are available online, and admission and bar tents are operating on a card-only basis.
Read the full story at The Suncoast PostWhy It Matters
The four-day festival draws thousands of visitors to Sarasota County, impacting local traffic, public parking availability, and business activity for island restaurants and shops.
Key Facts
- The 2026 Siesta Key Crystal Classic runs from Friday, November 13, through Monday, November 16, 2026.
- Twenty-four master sand sculptors from around the world are participating in the competition.
- Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday.
- Saturday features extended hours until 9 p.m. with 'Sculptures After Dark' illuminated lighting.
- The amateur sand sculpting contests are split into two days: adults compete on Saturday, while children and teens compete on Sunday.
- Vendor Village features approximately 100 vendors offering merchandise, food, and beverages and is open without main competition admission.
- Admission tents and beer and water tents operate on a credit- or debit-card only basis.
- Free public parking is available at 948 Beach Road on a first-come, first-served basis, alongside limited reserved parking available for advance purchase.
- Sarasota County operates the free Route 77 Siesta Islander open-air trolley connecting Siesta Key Village, Siesta Beach, South Village, and Turtle Beach Park from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
- The Masters Awards Ceremony takes place Sunday at 3 p.m.
- People’s Choice Award voting continues through Monday at approximately 2:30 p.m.
Who's Mentioned
locationSafe Harbor Marina“Marina location for Spearfish Grille.”OrganizationSun Garden Café“Breakfast and lunch café located at 210 Avenida Madera.”OrganizationBreeze Transit“Operates the Route 77 Siesta Islander trolley.”locationSarasota“Nearby community and municipal area referenced for visitors.”OrganizationCB’s Saltwater Outfitters“Local business offering water rentals and supplies since 1959.”OrganizationCafé Gabbiano“Italian restaurant near Siesta Beach.”OrganizationThe Cottage“Restaurant located at 153 Avenida Messina.”OrganizationSpearfish Grille“Restaurant located at Safe Harbor Marina at 1265 Old Stickney Point Road.”locationSiesta Key Village“Village area with dining and shopping near the festival.”OrganizationThe Old Salty Dog“Restaurant located at 5023 Ocean Boulevard.”OrganizationSiesta Key Oyster Bar“Restaurant located at 5238 Ocean Boulevard.”locationSiesta Beach“Location of the sandsculpting festival.”locationTurtle Beach Park“Stop on the Route 77 Siesta Islander trolley route.”locationBradenton“Nearby community referenced for visitors.”