Siesta Key Crystal Classic Starts this Friday
Twenty-four Master Sand Sculptors from around the world are ready to compete in the 6th annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival, which opens to the public at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 13.
To get ready, the sand sculptors will be working on a central “group carve,” starting Tuesday, which shows logos of event sponsors and will later serve as the center stage for the event’s live music and awards.
“Many of the sculptors are now in town helping with set up, and we’re excited to open on Friday,” said Maria Bankemper, Event Chair. “We’re really grateful to all the sponsors who have helped make this event a reality again this year — they’ve shown a tremendous amount of support for the community.”
Highlights of the Siesta Key Crystal Classic will include:
- The Kona Brewing party tent at the entrance to the event on Friday, Nov. 13, through Sunday, Nov. 15.
- Vendor Village with food, drink & retail will be available Friday-Monday.
- Continuous live music starting on Friday at noon through Sunday afternoon
- Quick Sand Battle: Team Daiquiri Deck vs. Team Captain Curt’s starting on Friday through the finals on Sunday
- Amateur sculpting contest starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday with judging and awards at 4 p.m.
- Judging for Master Sand Sculptor team awards starting at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday with the awards ceremony at 3 p.m.
- Sculpture viewing with special Mobi-Mat on sand for easier walking will be available on Tuesday
SCAT will offer scheduled bus service from Southgate and Sarasota Pavilions to Siesta Beach, Routes 10 and 11, throughout the event.
The production of this year's festival is a partnership between the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and Mote Marine Laboratory. Through this partnership, Mote aims to support the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and generate awareness of its Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program, which coordinates conservation of endangered sea turtles along 35 miles of Sarasota County beaches, including Siesta Key.
About the Siesta Key Crystal Classic Master Sand Sculpting Competition
Founded in 2010, the Crystal Classic is a result of discussions between Master Sand Sculptor and Siesta Key resident Brian Wigelsworth and representatives of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Sarasota County Parks and Recreation, Mote Marine Laboratory and Visit Sarasota County (then called Sarasota Convention and Visitors Bureau).
For more information about the event please visit www.SiestaKeyCrystalClassic.com, call the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce at 941-349-3800.
For more information about Mote Marine Laboratory please visit www.mote.org or contact Kaitlyn Fusco, Public Relations Manager, at 941-388-4441, ext. 417; Cell: 941-302-4997; or kfusco@mote.org.