​🐾 Pet Policy - Updated 

 

What is the Pet Policy for 2026?

Texas SandFest is now a Service Animals Only event. Only Service Animals, as defined by the ADA, are permitted within the festival grounds.

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Are Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) or therapy pets allowed?

No. Per the ADA, the above do not qualify as Service Animals and will not be admitted.

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What are the responsibilities of a Service Animal handler?

A Service Animal must be under the control of its handler. Under the ADA, Service Animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless the individual’s disability prevents using these devices or these devices interfere with the Service Animal’s safe, effective performance of tasks. In that case, the individual must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls.

Additionally:

• The animal must be housebroken and well-behaved.

• The handler is fully responsible for the animal’s care, cleanup, and any damages caused.

 

Can I still bring my pet to the beach outside the festival?

Yes. This policy applies only to the Texas SandFest event grounds. 

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Where can I find more information on ADA requirements?

For official federal guidance, visit the ADA website.

 

👜 Know Before You Go

 

Can I bring a wagon to the event?

Small children may be pulled in a wagon.

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Are there any nearby hotels or accommodations?

Yes, there are many great options in Port Aransas. Plan your stay via the Port Aransas Tourism Bureau & Chamber of Commerce website.

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Can I bring folding chairs?

Yes, folding chairs are permitted, provided they do not block pedestrian traffic.

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Can I bring a beach umbrella or other shade structure?

No

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ℹ️ General

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When is Texas SandFest 2027?

April 16–18, 2027

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How do I become a volunteer?

Please follow this link to sign up and learn more about volunteering.

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Are there kid activities?

Yes, most take place at the South end of the grounds in Kids' Corner, including Lesson Mountain, face painting, fun games, and more!​

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Do you have a list of local restaurants?

Yes! See the full list on the Port Aransas Tourism Bureau & Chamber of Commerce website.

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How does the golf cart raffle work?

All details are available here.

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Are photos or videos taken at Texas SandFest? What about using my image?

Yes. Texas SandFest (and authorized partners) may photograph, film, video, audio-record, or otherwise record attendees and anyone else throughout the event area.

• By entering the premises, from 3 weeks before the event through the day after it closes (including setup, the festival, and teardown, you grant Texas SandFest, its affiliates, and licensees irrevocable permission to capture, use, publish, stream, display, reproduce, and distribute your image, likeness, voice, or appearance (with or without your name) without compensation. This applies to any media now known or developed in the future, worldwide, and in perpetuity—for promotional, commercial, news, or other purposes.

• Your presence constitutes consent; no individual releases are needed. By entering, you also waive claims related to compensation, approval rights, privacy, publicity, or similar issues.

• Even if you are just watching the sculptors build or walking through the area, you are included.​

• For the full details, see our Crowd Release / Notice of Filming and Photography.​

 

🚗 Traffic, Parking & Transportation

 

Where is Texas SandFest located?

On the beach between Markers 13 and 17. North gate entrance: Marker 13. South gate entrance: Marker 17.

 

Can we park our RV at Texas SandFest?

Yes and no.

• Yes, outside the bollards south of Marker 19 (perpendicular parking only, max 3 nights). See City of Port Aransas RV parking regulations.

• No, inside the bollards, and no RVs, trailers, or oversized vehicles in SandFest parking lots. Texas SandFest assumes no liability for stuck vehicles, damage, or loss of property.

 

Can I park my trailer, RV, or other oversized vehicle inside the general Texas SandFest beach parking lots?

No, none are permitted in public SandFest beach parking lots. Park outside the bollards, per City rules (see above), or in the Gracies Way parking lot.

 

Where can I park my trailer, RV, or other oversized vehicle?

At Gracie's Way parking lot

• No overnight parking

• This parking lot is a field; park at your own risk.

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Can I park my RV on the beach outside Texas SandFest?

Generally, yes on the west side of the bollards, north of Ave G or south of Marker 19, which is just south of Access Road 1A. No RV/trailer parking between Ave G and Marker 19 during the week leading up to the event and during the event. Obey all city ordinances and signage.

 

Will traffic be one-way on the beach?

Yes, typically southbound from ~9:00 AM to ~8:00 PM (Saturday & Sunday) between Ave G and Access Road 1A. Both directions north of Ave G and south of Access Road 1A.

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Will I need a beach parking permit if I park in the Texas SandFest parking lots on the beach?

Yes, it is required for any beach parking. More info here.

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Is there a cost to park?

No, Texas SandFest does not charge for parking; the City requires a $12 parking permit (calendar year) for all beach parking. All three remote lots are free and do not require a parking permit.

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Where are the remote parking lots located?

• Gracie's Way: just off Access Road 1A (grass field)

• Roberts Point Park: 301 J.C. Barr Blvd.

• Port Aransas Community Park: 700 Clark Parkway

 

Is overnight parking allowed in the parking lots?

No overnight parking is permitted in any Texas SandFest lots, including Gracie's Way.

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Where is the bus parking?

All bus parking (tour, school, charter) is at the remote lot at Gracie's Way (grass field)

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Will there be a golf cart shuttle to take me to and from my car?

Yes and no. Yes, the shuttles will take you to the vicinity (generally ~1000 feet from where you parked), but not to your car. This applies to the main lot (inside bollards, ~Marker 12 to Ave G) and Gracie's Way. Priority: disabilities, injuries, elderly.

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What hours do the golf cart shuttles operate?

9:00 AM until 8:00 PM sharp each event day.

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Can we drive our golf carts inside the event?

No, only official Texas SandFest golf carts allowed.

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Is there a lot of walking involved?

Yes, the event spans about ½ mile; expect to walk it multiple times.

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What street(s) are closed or have limited access?

Sandcastle Drive is closed to through traffic for the entire event.

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Is there a cost for the RTA Shuttle (Bus) service during Texas SandFest?

Yes and no: Free on the dedicated SandFest route (stops at Roberts Point Park, Port Aransas Community Park, end of Road 1A/beach). Normal fares apply to other RTA routes.

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What days and hours does the RTA SandFest shuttle bus run?

9:00 AM to 8:00 PM each event day. Last pickup: 8:00 PM sharp at Access Road 1A/beach.

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Are bicycles and E-Bikes allowed in the event?

No, but bike racks are available just outside the North and South gates. Texas SandFest is not responsible for damage or theft.

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♿ Accessibility

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Are wheelchairs permitted?

Yes, motorized scooters and wheelchairs are permitted, as are strollers and kiddie pull wagons. Please note that this event is on the beach, and most mobility scooters and wheelchairs are not designed for use on sand. Texas SandFest has a limited number of beach wheelchairs available by reservation. Please visit our accessibility page for more information.

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Do you offer golf cart tours of the event?

No

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Are there places to sit and rest in the shade?

Yes, at the main beer tent, the music tent, near Logo Mountain at the North gate, and by the Kids' Corner at the South gate.

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Are there air-conditioned areas?

No

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🎪 Available at SandFest

 

Is WiFi available?

No

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I lost something - is there a Lost & Found?

Lost & Found is located next to the North gate entrance at our Guest Relations tent.

• Texas SandFest is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. Please keep valuables secure and with you at all times.

• Due to the short duration of our event, we hold unclaimed items for 7 days after the event closes. After that period, items are discarded or donated as appropriate. 

• If you realize something is missing after you leave, contact us at info@texassandfest.org within 7 days. We will make reasonable efforts to identify and match your item. If found and claimable:

• We can mail it back to you (U.S. addresses only) for a fee that covers packing materials and shipping costs (paid in advance; exact amount quoted based on item size/weight).

• Local pickup may be arranged by appointment if feasible.

• Please provide a detailed description of the item, when/where you think it was lost, your contact info, and any photos if available. We appreciate your understanding. Our priority is to help reunite items when possible, but space and resources are limited.

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Is there a family restroom or a baby changing station?

Yes. There are two, and both have a baby changing station:

• North entrance, to the east of Tribute Mountain.

• South entrance, to the west of Kids Corner​

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Can I bring a cooler or ice chest?

No. Outside ice chests and coolers are not permitted. 

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What about food and/or drinks?

Although coolers are not permitted, you are welcome to bring food & drinks, except alcoholic beverages.

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Can I bring a drone?

Drones or other remote flying devices are NOT permitted on festival grounds.

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🍺 Beverages & Beverage Tickets

 

Do you sell beer?

Yes, beer is available for purchase, but you must be 21 or older to buy or consume alcoholic beverages.

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Do you sell other beverages?

Yes. We offer bottled water and Capri Sun. Additional non-alcoholic options (soda, lemonade, etc.) are available from various vendors throughout the grounds.

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Can I bring my own alcoholic beverages?

No. Outside alcohol is not permitted inside the event grounds.

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How do you pay for beverages?

All beverages sold at our beer tents require beverage tickets.

• North and South gate beer tents: Cash only.

• Main beer tent (by the music stage): Cash and credit cards accepted.

To purchase:

• Show your current event wristband (required for all beverage purchases).

• Purchase beverage tickets (alcoholic or non-alcoholic).

• Take tickets to the bar area to exchange for your drink.

Pricing

• Alcoholic beverage tickets (beer): $8 each

• Non-alcoholic beverage tickets (water, Capri Sun, etc.): $2 each

Age Requirements & ID

• You must be 21+ to purchase alcoholic beverage tickets or to exchange them for alcohol.

• Valid ID is required when purchasing or redeeming alcoholic beverage tickets. Wristbands alone do not prove age.

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Are beverage tickets refundable?

No, beverage tickets are non-refundable.

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What if I lose my beverage tickets?

Lost or misplaced beverage tickets cannot be replaced or refunded.

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When do beverage tickets expire?

Beverage tickets are valid only during the current event dates and are not valid for future events or carryover.

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🍔 Food & Shopping

 

What kind of vendors are on-site?

Texas SandFest features a wide range of vendors split into two main categories: Food and Non-Food.

• Food vendors offer crowd-favorite fair foods, local eats, refreshments, and more (think funnel cakes, corn dogs, slushies, and coastal-inspired options).

• Non-food vendors sell all types of products, including one-of-a-kind beachy souvenirs, handmade jewelry, coastal cover-ups, flip flops, apparel, artisan goods, and unique decor.

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Do vendors accept credit cards?

Payment methods vary by vendor: many accept cash only, while others accept credit cards. Bring cash for the best experience, especially for smaller or independent vendors.

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Where are ATMs located?

ATMs are available on-site at the following locations:

• Just outside the North Entrance along the bollards

• Near the Center at the Main Beer tent

• Just outside the South Entrance along the bollards-

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Where can I buy official Texas SandFest merchandise?

Official merch is available just inside the North and South entrances. Cash and credit cards are accepted.

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Anything else to know about vendors?

Vendors are carefully selected to enhance the festival vibe and support small businesses. For vendor applications or inquiries (food or non-food), visit our Vendors page

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🎟️ Ticket Information

 

How many days does the wristband cover?

The wristband covers entrance to all 3 days of the event. Do not remove your wristband if you plan to return.

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Where can I purchase tickets for the event?

• Online. Online ticket sales close approximately one week before the event opens

  • General Admission Tickets​

  • VIP Tickets

• In Person

  • Guest Relations Tent

    • April 14 - 16 (Tuesday to Thursday) from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

  • North and South entrance gates​

    • April 17 - 19 (Friday to Sunday) from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM

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I bought wristbands online. What is the process to get them?

Wristbands purchased online will be available for pickup at the Guest Relations Tent (at the North Gate) from April 14 - 16 between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM, and at the North and South gate entrances from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day of the event.

1. Once at either of the gates, get in the "Will Call" lane

2. Either have your confirmation email or the first and last name of the person who purchased the wristbands

3. A volunteer will look you up in the system and get you the correct number of each type of wristband

 

Are tickets/ wristbands refundable?

There are no refunds.

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What does my ticket cover?

All areas and activities except for the VIP area.

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Can I leave the event and come back?

Yes. You must keep your wristband on for reentry. The wristband will provide you with 3 days of entry.

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Will the event be cancelled if it rains?

No

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Are VIP Tent wristbands available for purchase? 

Yes.  VIP Information

• Online. Online ticket sales close approximately one week before the event opens​​

  • VIP Tickets

• In Person

  • Guest Relations Tent

    • April 14 - 16 (Tuesday to Thursday) from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

  • ​VIP Sales Tent (in front of the VIP area)

    • ​April 17 - 18 (Friday and Saturday) from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM unless sold out.

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Are discount tickets available?

Unfortunately, Texas SandFest does not offer any discounts.

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I lost or took off my wristband. Can I get a replacement?

• Lost or misplaced wristbands are not replaceable or refundable.

• If you took off your wristband, you may bring the entire wristband to either gate for a replacement

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🏖️ Sculptors & Sculptures

 

How is the sand held together?

Sand is held together by compaction and internal moisture. Different-sized grains fit together a lot like jigsaw puzzle pieces.

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Why does the surface of the sculptures not wear down quickly?

The sculptures' surfaces are sprayed with a proprietary, biodegradable, child- and sea-life-safe bonding agent.

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Does rain damage the sculptures?

The durability of a sculpture depends on the intensity of the rain:

• Light Rain: Generally has no impact and does not hurt the sculptures.

• Moderate Rain: May begin to soften or erase some of the finer details.

• Heavy Rain: Can cause significant damage to portions of the sculpture.

 

Will wind damage the sculptures?

Wind can damage the sculptures, especially the fine details.

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What kind of sand is used?

Only local beach sand is used.

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How long do the sculptors in the Gallery have to sculpt their art?

That depends on which category they are in.

• Master: 36 Hours over 5 days

• Semi Pro: 26.75 Hours over 4 days.

• Advanced Amateur: 18 Hours over 3 days

 

How much sand does each category of Sculptor get to create their master piece?

• Master Solo: 12 cubic yards*

• Master Duo: 24 cubic yards*

• Semi Pro: 9 cubic yards*

• Advanced Amateur: 6 cubic yards*

*These are approximate amounts.

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Who are the judges?

Judging is performed by other sculptors from other categories.

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What is the prize money for the winners?

Over $22,000 in total prize money is awarded across the various competition categories and specialty awards.

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Are the sculptors using drinking water (potable) for their sculptures?

No. The water used for sculpting is non-potable and sourced from two separate sources: an irrigation well and a local pond with brackish water. We do not use treated drinking water for the construction of any of the sand art you see at the event.

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How many professional sculptors are there worldwide?

There are fewer than 500 professional sand sculptors worldwide.

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How many years does it take to become a Master Sculptor?

It takes roughly 10 years of sand sculpting experience to become a Master Sculptor.

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What backgrounds do some of the sculptors have?

• Ice or wood carving.

• Artists​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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