b'P o r tA r a n s a sOver its 25-year history, Texas Sandfest has grown into one of the largest and most-at-tended sand sculpture competitions in the entire world and is the largest native sand competition in the United States. More than 50,000 spectators will descend upon Port Aransas for a three-day beach party centered around the breathtaking work of over a dozen of the worlds master sand sculptors. Fans will enjoy live music along with a vast array of artisan vendors and, of course, lots of wonderful food!Free sandcastle building lessons will be offered at Port A Logo Mountain, and ama-teur competitions are held in adult, teen and kids categories. Grown-ups will enjoy the beer garden, and the kids will have a blast in the fun zone. While well-behaved dogs on leashes are allowed at Texas Sandfest, golf carts are not, as the festival zone on the beach is pedestrian-only. RV parking at the north end of the site will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations are not available, and a permit must be purchased through the City of Port Aransas.Over 150 vendors will be selling everything under the sun and more than one would ever imagine at one place, at one time. The great reward for local organizers is not only showing off their beautiful island to new visitors from around the world, but especially the joy of giving to their community. Over its history, Texas Sandfest has raised millions of dollars for local charities as well as to fund academic scholarships for students at Port Aransas High School headed to the next step in their education.Over recent years, Texas Sandfest, a signature event in Port Aransas, has had to adjust to major events affecting the communityfirst, following the devastation of Hurri-cane Harvey, and then amid the Covid pandemic. Last years Texas Sandfest marked its return to the spring schedule, and the 2023 event promises to be the best in years!122THE COASTAL BEND GUIDE TheCoastalBend.com'