Ocala’s First Ever Sand Sculpture Competition! Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.      Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave.

Ocala Cultural Arts is bringing the beach to Downtown Ocala for the first time with the Sand and Sun Festival! This exciting event will feature six professional, nationally acclaimed sand sculptors who will create large-scale, detailed sand sculptures based on an open theme. A panel of expert judges will evaluate the sculptures and determine First and Second Place, with winners announced at 4:30 p.m., and attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite sculpture to win the People’s Choice Award.

Children are invited to explore the Sandcastle Playground, a hands-on area with a sand pit where they can build and shape their own sand creations.

Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy live music and community performances at Citizens’ Circle creating a lively atmosphere filled with energy and entertainment. Visitors will also enjoy eating at local food trucks, exploring offerings from community non-profits and sponsors, and shopping for unique items from artisan and craft vendors.

This is a free event open to the public, offering a full day of family-friendly activities and creativity in downtown Ocala. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind celebration of sand, sun, and fun!

For more information, please contact us at artinfo@ocalafl.gov or call 352-629-8447.

Vendor Information

It is the City of Ocala’s intent to provide a high quality, family friendly, home-town event atmosphere throughout the Sand and Sun Festival. Local vendors, artists, artisans, craftsmen, food service, and non-profit organizations are encouraged to participate. Interested vendors and organizations can apply using the application form below. Entries can be submitted online, via email to artinfo@ocalafl.gov, or mailed to:

City of Ocala Cultural Arts, 201 SE 3rd St., 2nd Floor, Ocala, FL 34471.

Vendor applications are now open for the Sand and Sun Festival.

Sponsorship Information

There are various ways you or your organization can be a part of the Sand and Sun Festival, such as volunteering, in-kind and/or monetary sponsorships/donations. We are happy to discuss how we can bring value to your organization through supporting Ocala Cultural Arts. Contact us via email at artinfo@ocalafl.gov for questions or information about sponsorships.

Apply now to become a sponsor for the 2026 Sand and Sun Festival and support local arts in Ocala.