The annual Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival returns to Clearwater Beach this week

This week marks the beginning of the 17-day long festival that highlights the best of  what Clearwater has to offer: sugar sand and sunsets.

Featuring 14 sculptors and over 1,000 tons of sand, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival runs from April 8-24 at 1 Causeway Blvd. on Clearwater Beach.

Ogling at the various sand sculptures won’t be the only thing to do at this week’s sand celebration, as there will also be free live music, fireworks, kids play zones, and sand sculpting classes scattered throughout the festival grounds.

General admission for the Sugar Sand festival costs $12, but children under the age of 3 get in for free (just make sure they don’t wreck the masterpieces.) VIP passes run for $70, but each comes with Fast Lane entry, complimentary beverages and a charcuterie board, as well as other souvenirs.

Tickets will be available for purchase at the gate, but you won’t be able to pay with cash. For all ticketing options and information, head to sugarsandfestival.com.

Guests will also have the chance to vote for their favorite sculpture by donating any amount of cash to their favorite artist. The sculptor who receives the most money will also win the grand prize of $7,000, but their personal donations will be given to Clearwater’s Sandy Lane and Eisenhower Elementary Schools.
The 21,000 square-foot sand sculpture exhibit is open for perusing from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. -10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and beach chairs, but are asked to please leave coolers, pets, grills, tents and weapons at home.

For more information, visit the FAQ section on the festival website, or follow @Pier60SugarSandFestival on Facebook.