Virginia Beach Oceanfront
On the Beach, between 7th - 8th Street
Entrance to the tent is located at 7th Street on the Beach
How else can one describe this event any other way than with an experience? With a world-class venue, 32 of the world's most talented sculptors, and an exciting prize purse, Neptune's International Sandsculpting Championship has distinguished itself as a premier event unlike any other. Sandsculpting has been the signature event of the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival since its inception, and has grown to the most prestigious event of its kind in the nation. With an international field of sculptors representing 15 countries from around the world, watch the professionals turn grains of sand into works of art in just 3 days! A huge tent, almost as large as a football field, will house 22 sculptures created by 12 solo and 10 doubles teams! Sculptors will compete for the largest prize purse awarded in the country.
Friday, September 25 - Sunday, October 4, 2026
Admission: $7 per person
Admission must be purchased on-site (cash and card accepted)! Children ages 12 and under are free while accompanied by an adult.
Tent is wheelchair and stroller accessible
Sculpting Hours Only (Tent Closed to the Public)
Mon, 9/21 - Wed, 9/23: 8am-5pm
Thurs, 9/24: 8am-2pm
Tent Open to the Public
Fri, 9/25 - Sat, 9/26: 9am-11pm
Sun, 9/27 - 9am-9pm
Mon, 9/28 - Thurs, 10/1: 10am-6pm
Fri, 10/2 - Sat, 10/3: 10am-9pm
Sun, 10/4: 10am-6pm
City of Virginia Beach Employee Appreciation Night: Monday, 9/28: 6-8pm
We invite all Virginia Beach City and VPCPS Employees and their families to attend for free. To be admitted, please present your City or VBCPS Employee Badge.
LEARN FROM THE PROS: FREE SAND CLINICS
Master Sculptors will hold free teaching clinics on the beach for your chance to learn from a pro! Join classes with your friends, classmates, or coworkers for a once in a lifetime, hands-on learning experience.
All sand, water and tools will be provided. No reservations are available, and please arrive before class times to participate — space will be limited! Find us at 8th Street on the beach.
Saturday, September 26
9:00am-11:00am: No Hassle Sand Castle
1:00pm-3:00pm: Sea Turtles
4:00pm-6:00pm: King Neptune's Face
Sunday, September 27
9:00am-11:00am: No Hassle Sand Castle
1:00pm-3:00pm: Sea Turtles
