Fiesa Sand City 2024 in Portugal

Fiesa Sand City is one of the largest and most impressive sand sculpture festivals in the world, located in Pêra, in the Algarve region of Portugal. Held annually from early June through the end of November, the festival features over 60 artists who use around 65,000 tonnes of sand to create extraordinary sculptures, some reaching up to 12 meters in height. With over 50,000 square meters of open-air exhibition space, the festival showcases more than 120 unique sculptures.

Sculptures

The sculptures are typically themed, and each year, there are new exhibits and creations on display, ranging from intricate depictions of famous figures and historical events to imaginative and abstract designs.The sculptures are made with incredible details. Giant figures of Einstein, Ronaldo, Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe were especially impressive due to their resemblance to historical figures. Artists accompany their works with a description telling how the sculpture was formed and realized.

Techniques

Many of the sculptures at Sand City are created using a technique known as "compacting," where various containers are used to press the sand together and form intricate works of art. The artists face challenges such as rain and wind, which can damage their creations. However, the Algarve region is particularly suitable for the festival because of its low rainfall during the summer and the sticky texture of the sand, making it an ideal location for sand sculpting.

Activities

At Sand City, visitors can explore the exhibition grounds in style with electric buggies, offering a fun and eco-friendly way to tour the massive "city" made entirely of sand. For both children and adults, there’s an area dedicated to hands-on sand sculpting, where everyone can create their own masterpieces in a free, unmonitored space. The festival also features tranquil areas for relaxation, with shaded benches and tables, ideal for enjoying the sculptures and the vibrant surroundings. A snack bar offers light meals and refreshments (from July to November), but outside food and drinks are not allowed.

Open Hours

The hours of operation vary depending on the season. From March to June, the festival is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm. During the summer (June to September 15), it has extended hours, staying open until 11 pm. Later in the year, from mid-September to November, the festival operates from 10 am to 7 pm.

Tickets

Tickets to Fiesa Sand City are priced as follows: Adults (13-64 years) €9.50, Children (6-12 years) €4.70, and Seniors (65+ years) €7.60.

History of the Festival

Since its inception in 2003, the International Sand Sculpture Festival (Festival Internacional de Escultura em Areia—FIESA) has been held every summer in Pêra, Portugal. In 2019, the festival underwent significant changes, including a rebranding, a move to a new location, and adjusted event dates. It is now known as Sand City and takes place in Lagoa, located along the EN125 road. The event continues to showcase the impressive art of sand sculpture, drawing thousands of visitors each year. In previous years, the festival has covered themes like Music, Idols, Animal Kingdom, the Living World, Discoveries, Hollywood Films and Characters, Wonders of the World, Mythology, and Lost Worlds.