Frequently Asked Questions!
How much does it cost to view The Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit?
General admission to the sculpture exhibit will be $14 per person and free for children 3 and under. Discounted tickets for military personnel, police officers, firefighters, teachers and healthcare workers can be purchased for $10 each on “Frontline Fridays”. These discounted tickets will be available at the gate only with proper identification. Advanced ticket sales will launch in December 2023 - right in time for the holidays! You may also purchase tickets onsite at the exhibit tent. Payments accepted include all major credit cards, Google Pay and Apple Pay. After tickets are purchased there are NO refunds.
When are the sculptures complete?
The Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit is 95% complete on opening day. We leave pockets of untouched sand open so that guests are able to see the sand being brought to life by our talented performance artists.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the actual sand, however, they are permitted on the sidewalks, so long as they are on a leash. Service dogs are permitted.
How are the sculptures made?
Sand sculptures are made using two simple ingredients: sugar sand and water! Sculptors shovel sand into large wooden forms and “pack” the sand to create surface tension. The combination of compaction and surface tension makes the sand rock-hard. Sculptors are then able to chip away with various tools such as trowels, toothpicks, and dentistry tools in order to create a sand sculpture. This entire process is eco-friendly.
What happens if it rains?
Rain or shine the event will be ongoing as the sculptures are protected by an enclosed tent, so don’t let the rain scare you away. It’s the perfect rainy day adventure. However, windy weather can be dangerous for both visitors and the integrity of the sand sculptures. In the event of high winds, the festival may close. There are no refunds, but don’t worry, the Sugar Sand Festival lasts seventeen days!
Is the festival wheelchair accessible?
Yes, two complimentary sand wheelchairs are available for guests during their visit on a first come, first serve basis. For more information on additional beach wheelchair rentals, please contact Fun Ride Rentals for rates at (727) 519-3008.
Two motorized sand wheelchairs will be available for guests during their visit on a first come, first serve basis. For more information on additional motorized beach wheelchair rentals, please contact Sand Helper at 727-213-5700 or https://www.sandhelper.com/
All guests must sign a liability release and provide a drivers license. Sand and motorized wheelchairs must only be used in the Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit.
Are cameras permitted?
Take as many pictures as you would like, but don’t forget to post them onto social media for everyone to see with the hashtag, #SugarSand.
What does my ticket include?
Your ticket includes ONE DAY entry into the Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit along with one complimentary souvenir photo for General Admission ticket purchases. All additional activities including food vendors, ferris wheel, artisans and other amusements are not included in your ticket purchase. Don't forget to get your hand stamped a the exhibit exit so you may re-enter on the day of entry ONLY!
Where can I park my RV, bus, motor-home, or other over-sized vehicles?
Oversized vehicle parking directly on the beach is located at:
Clearwater Beach:
Mandalay Ave (East side between Rockaway and Bay Esplanade)
4 metered spaces signed “Vehicles 24’ to 50’ Only”
Enforced from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily (5 hour time limit). No charge all other times.
Rate: $3.50 per hour daily
Posted “No Overnight Parking”
Juanita Way (between Mandalay Ave and Poinsettia Ave.)
3 metered spaces signed “Vehicles 24’ to 50’ Only”
Enforced from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily (5 hour time limit). No charge all other times.
Rate: $3.50 per hour daily
Per Ordinance Sec. 30.096. - Overtime parking: It is unlawful for the operator of a vehicle to stop, park or leave standing a vehicle on a city owned or operated parking lot, garage or other property, using meters, multi-space parking pay stations, gates, permits, or time limits for revenue and access control, for a period longer than 72 hours without first making arrangements in advance with the parking division.
How do I buy tickets?
Conveniently purchase ahead online and skip the lines! Ticket holders will have their own, separate, “fast lane-entrance” to the event, and will receive a $5 discount on all festival merchandise. You may also purchase tickets onsite at the exhibit tent. Payments accepted include all major credit cards, Google Pay and Apple Pay.
Where can I find media information?
If you are a member of the media and need to speak to someone at Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival, please contact media relations at:
Heather Parson, 727-562-4708 heather.parsons@myclearwater.com
Is my ticket good all day?
Yes, you are free to walk through and admire the exhibit as many times as you would like! Don't forget to get your hand stamped a the exhibit exit so you may re-enter on the day of entry ONLY!
Can I buy food and drinks at the festival?
Clearwater Beach has many culinary gems within walking distance of the festival for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Bottled water, soda, beer and wine are available for purchase onsite. Visit one of our sweet treat, snack and dessert vendors after you’ve enjoyed a meal at one of the festival’s neighboring bars and restaurants.
How can I hire my own sand sculptor?
Are you celebrating an Anniversary, Surprise Engagement, Wedding, Birthday or Corporate Promotion? You can hire your own sand sculptor to create a custom sand masterpiece. Fill out our contact form and we will have one of our master sculptors contact you to discuss your special occasion!