Sunday, July 19, 2026 10:00 AM
Red Arrow Park, 1931 S 9th Street, Manitowoc, WI

The Wisconsin Sand Sculpting Festival, presented by Fox Communities Credit Union, is the only one of its kind in the entire state of Wisconsin. This two-day event at Manitowoc's Red Arrow Park and Beach is a unique festival featuring competitive semi-pro sand sculptors constructing masterpieces and an amateur competition. Throughout the weekend, attendees can watch and chat with competing sculptors in action in addition to enjoying a variety of live performances, food trucks, cold drinks, and vendor booths.

Event Schedule
The event runs Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, July 19, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
The full 2026 event schedule can be found at Wisconsin Sand Sculpting Festival

Semi-Pro Competition
Eight semi-pro sand sculptors from across the country will compete for the top prizes of the weekend. Sculptors will sculpt both Saturday and Sunday. On Sunday until 3 p.m., event attendees can cast their vote for the People's Choice Award. The semi-pro awards ceremony will take place at 4:30 p.m. under the entertainment tent.

Amateur Competition 
The 2026 Amateur Sand Sculpting State Championship will take place Saturday and is open to both individuals and teams. Registration runs 9:00 - 9:45 a.m. The contest kicks off at 10:00 a.m. and concludes at 3:00 p.m. The Awards Ceremony takes place at 4:00 p.m. under the entertainment tent.

For the complete rules and to register your team, complete the online registration form here.

Food Trucks
In addition to burgers, brats and hot dogs by the Knights of Columbus all weekend, food trucks and vendors will be on site. 

Vendors
From jewelry to toys, shop a variety of vendors in the park.

Parking
Free street and lot parking is available surrounding the event site. 
Limited handicap parking is available at the entrance of Red Arrow Park.

Event Rules and Reminders
  • No dogs are allowed in the event area.
  • Do not park in private business parking lots surrounding the event, like Late's Diner across the street from Red Arrow Park.
  • No coolers, please. There are food and drinks available for purchase inside the event.  
For event updates please check: Wisconsin Sand Sculpting Festival