One of my favorite summer beach activities has always been playing in the sand. It was so satisfying to fill up the bucket with damp sand and turn it upside down to create the turrets and towers of a sandcastle. Last week I witnessed sand art on a grand scale.
Atlantic City NJ hosted the Sand Sculpting World Cup. This amazing display – held on the Pennsylvania Ave. beach next to the Steel Pier – draws artists from all over the world for the three week event. All the sculptures are made with only sand and water. A special “sticky” sand is brought in for the artists to use. Once their creations are complete, a fine spray of watered-down Elmer’s glue keeps the sculptures from succumbing to the elements during the three week show. Here is just a sample of t
he magnificent creations: 
The competition originated in 1897 and was held non-stop until 1944, drawing people from all over to Atlantic City. Sand art became so popular, it was immortalized on postcards around the world. When the city was ravaged by an unnamed hurricane in 1944, the event was stopped until it resumed 15 years ago.
If you missed this amazing display of sand art by the best sculptors in the world, check out the website and make plans to visit next year. You won’t be disappointed.
The First Place Winner.
I’ve always been in awe of these artists! Thanks for sharing more sand-sculpted beauty, Darlene :)
I love looking at these magnificent sand sculptures. For anyone who can’t wait until next year, you might want to visit the new sand art museum this summer under the tent in Seaside Heights, NJ. Donate $1 and ask for the tour to hear everything about each piece from the artist.
Sounds great. I’ll have to remember to do that when I’m at Seaside.
NJ Sandcastle Contest in Belmar, NJ.
July 16 – 2014, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Registration begins at 8am.
Judging at 12pm.
All Ages – Prizes!
18th Ave Beach.
Rain Date July 30th.
VisitBelmarNJ.com for more info.