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What to Expect at the 2023 Siesta Key Crystal Classic
Posted by Best Western Siesta Key onNovember 6, 2023 in General.

The 2023 Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival is right around the corner. If you’re planning to attend this popular event — which brings 40,000 visitors to the area every year — you won’t be disappointed. It promises awe-inspiring artwork, a variety of fun activities, live music, food trucks, and more, all on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. At Best Western Siesta Key, we’re deep in the know about this globally-famous competition; we’ll give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect at this year’s Crystal Classic.
A Brief History and Introduction to the Event
Founded in 2010, the Siesta Key Crystal Classic brings together master sculptors and enthusiastic amateurs from around the globe to create stunning, intricate, and large-scale sand sculptures. Since its inception, it has grown to become one of the premier competitions of its kind in the world. Visitors flock to the sugary white beaches of Siesta Key to witness the creativity, skill, and dedication of these talented sculptors as they transform sand into breathtaking works of art.
The 2023 Classic takes place from Friday, November 10 through Monday, November 13, 2023, and it promises to be fun for all visitors. Monday is the best day for those who require ADA-accessible viewing, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the event to the fullest. Monday at 5:00 p.m. marks the closing of the sculpting competition and your last chance to vote for your favorite masterpiece.
Activities and Entertainment For Visitors
Have you ever wondered how these intricate sand sculptures are created? The Crystal Classic offers sand demos and lessons, allowing you to learn from the pros. You can gain insight into the techniques and skills required to craft these works of art and perhaps even try to create your own.
While the sand sculptures are the stars of the show, the Crystal Classic offers a lot more for visitors to enjoy. Live music provides the perfect backdrop to your adventure, and you can shop retail vendors for unique souvenirs. A food court will be on-site, ensuring that you can enjoy delicious bites as you take in the art around you. For added convenience, restrooms and refillable water stations are also available.
The Crystal Classic isn’t just for adults; it’s a family-friendly event that offers various activities to keep the little ones entertained. Children can build sand castles and enjoy other kid-friendly amusements that add to the overall fun and excitement of the event.
Getting There From Best Western Siesta Key
Siesta Key Beach has ample parking options, but spaces tend to fill up quickly, so consider arriving early. Alternatively, you can use our complimentarty beach shuttle that runs from the hotel to the beach regularly. Once in town, take advantage of the free shuttle service provided by the event that runs from Siesta Key Village to Turtle Beach from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a sand sculpting aficionado, or simply looking for an enjoyable outing, the Crystal Classic has something to offer everyone. Don’t miss the chance to witness these ephemeral sand masterpieces and create lasting memories. Let the locals at Best Western Siesta Key help you plan your visit.
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