[title]
This Saturday, an all-day renaissance goes down on and with the sands of Coney Island Beach as sculptors of all experience levels make masterpieces out of mud. Whether you're ready to carve your legacy in the sand or want to check out the art, vendors, and live music, we've got all the details for you. And if you're looking for inspiration, you can awe at the masterworks of previous years.
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Coney Island in NY
When and where does this go down? The festivities run from 11am–5pm on the Coney Island Boardwalk between 10–12th streets.
How do I get there? Take the D, N, F or Q lines to Coney Island–Stillwell Ave.
Do I have to sign up if I want to compete? Online registration is sold out, but you can sign up to sculpt on the day of the event by showing up at by 12pm.
What are the categories? Whether you're sculpting solo or bringing a team of artists, there's a bracket for you. This year's categories are individual child (under 13), individual youth (14-19), group youth, individual adult, group adult and mixed age group.
What's the prize? Last year's champions in all seven categories won cash awards of $500, plus eternal glory. But this is no cake walk on the boardwalk: previous winning entries have included detailed imaginings of sea creatures, a model of the city of Atlantis and spiraling castles.
What if I don't want to sculpt? If you don't feel like getting your hands dirty, grab snacks from boardwalk vendors, try free Dunkin' Donuts summer smoothie samples, enjoy performances by strongman Chris "Wonder" Schoek and other local acts and dance by the water to a live set by DJ Excellence.
Should I bring money? The event is totally free, but you'll want cash on hand for local food and drink vendors.
Where can I find photos of these masterpieces? Follow #coneyislandsandsculpt to see the splendor in the sand.