ANOTHER YEAR IS IN THE BOOKS!
August 10, 2023 –
The sun-soaked shores of Revere Beach recently played host to an awe-inspiring display of creativity and craftsmanship at the International Sand Sculpting Festival. This annual event brought together sculptors from around the world, transforming ordinary sand into breathtaking works of art.
THE EVENT
Throughout the weekend, hundreds of thousands of people attended the festival throughout the three days it was hosted. People came from all over to witness the spectacular works of art. For the theme, we celebrated “90 Years of Kong” which was showcased in our centerpiece, a 22 foot sand sculpture of an epic battle of King Kong.
WORKS OF ART
After three and a half days of being in the sun, working hard, and transforming sand, our 15 master sand sculptors competed for prizes totaling $28,000. Awards were given out as follows:
1st Place: Slavian Borecki, Neptune’s Morning Coffee
2nd Place: Hanneke Supply, Trapped in your own Mind the way out is through the Heart
3rd Place: Jonathan Bouchard, D-Side
4th Place: Karen Fralich, Steam Punk Fish
5th Place: Bouke Atema, Humanity ‘CAN’
Sculptor’s Choice: Jonathan Bouchard, D-Side
People’s Choice: Deborah Barret-Cutulle, Embracing Our Differences
GRABBED YOUR MERCH
The International Sand Sculpting Festival revealed a diverse range of over 15 new merchandise pieces, catering to a variety of interests and tastes. From King Kong to retro-themed to generic Revere Beach items, we designed it! You can purchase hoodies, shirts, tanks, hats, and more on our website store.
FOOD, FOOD, AND MORE FOOD!
The options were endless this year for the 2023 International Sand Sculpting Festival! Whether you grabbed a smash burger from Wicked Tasty, a fig bar from Nature’s Bakery, or a classic festival staple from Fiesta Shows, everyone was happy with what to eat. You can see who attended in our other Beach Blog post.
THANKS FOR HAVING A DRINK WITH US
After partnering with Samuel Adams, we were able to have the first ever Samuel Adams Beer Garden. We opened the beer garden to those 21+ or accompanied by an adult to enjoy Wicked Hazy, Twisted Tea, Truly, or other favorites. In addition to the drinks, we all love, people could hang out at picnic tables, play some cornhole or other outdoor games, or listen to some live music.
SPECIAL PERFORMANCES, LIVE MUSIC, AND CLASSIC AMUSEMENTS
To provide even more entertainment throughout the entirety of the festival this year, we have created four different entertainment areas. From roaming magicians to a man on a pogo stick, entertainment was all over!
To change up the footprint of the event even more, we moved the location of the Ferris Wheel because this year we brought in one of the largest wheels in New England! Other classic, family-fun rides included the Crazy Bus, House of Mirrors, and Carousel.
The crowds gathered in front our centerpiece at the King Kong stage ready for a special performance by none other than Blue Man Group. Friday night showcased a unique kind of music and art, both popular and obscure thanks to Blue Man Group.
SAY CHEESE!
People had their cameras ready and lined up to take a picture behind one of the barricades of the King Kong photo op sculpture. People posed in King Kong’s grasp and were able to experience a sand sculpture up close.
SUPPORT YOUR LOCALS
Another unique addition to this year’s festival was the Beach Shop Pavilion. After partnering with Popping Up Next, our combined efforts secured 19 local, emerging, or nonprofit businesses. They displayed artwork for sale, had boutique set ups, and showcased their passions under two pavilions during the three day festival.
WE CLOSED WITH A BANG
After the decision to postpone the fireworks display that typically takes place on Saturday night due to weather, the festival hours were extended on Sunday so we can end the festival with a bang!
See you at 2024’s festival!
