Clearwater Beach Readies for 12th Annual Sand Sculpture Festival

Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival returns to Clearwater Beach. The 12th edition kicks off Friday, March 27, and runs through Sunday, April 12. "United in Sand: Celebrating Sports & Spirit!" serves as this year's theme.

"This year's Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit will highlight the unifying power of sports and the spirit that inspires generations," event organizers say, according to WTSP.com. The theme connects with America's 250th birthday. A special immersive tribute honors the Semiquincentennial — the anniversary marking the Declaration of Independence.

Visitors will wander through a sprawling 24,000-square-foot structure. Eighteen professional sand sculptors travel from across the globe to participate. They'll mold the beach's world-famous sugar sand into breathtaking sculptures.

Hours change by day. Sunday through Thursday, gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, the festival extends until 10 p.m.

One-day general admission runs $16 per person. Kids five and under can get in free.

Frontline workers get discounts. Military personnel, police officers, firefighters, teachers, and healthcare workers pay just $12 — but only on Fridays through April 10. Seniors 60 or older pay $14 on Tuesdays through April 7. Discounted tickets must be bought at the gate with proper identification.

General admission tickets with a Fast Lane pass can be purchased ahead of time online, as can BayStar VIP Lounge tickets. Or guest can show up and buy them in person at the exhibit's tent.

Organizers want you to snap photos, so bring your camera. Blankets work, and low-lying beach chairs are fine too.

Pets are banned — though service animals are exempted. Grills, hibachis, or open flames are not allowed. Glass containers and bottles stay home. Unauthorized vendors or solicitors aren't welcome. Tents, canopies, and umbrellas won't be permitted.

Firearms are prohibited unless Florida Statute, Chapter 790 (2011), says otherwise. Knives, weapons, fireworks, and laser pointers are all banned.