SCAD Sand Arts Festival 2026 has been canceled

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - [UPDATE] SCAD said their Sand Arts Festival 2026 has been canceled. This comes after they initially announced it would be postponed. School officials said after further review the canceled the event.

There will not be a postponed or alternate date this year.

Officials with SCAD said this decision was made early to prioritize the safety of students, volunteers, and the broader SCAD community, and to allow for timely communication and planning. 

[UPDATE] Due to anticipated inclement weather on Friday, May 1, the SCAD Sand Arts Festival has been postponed.

[ORIGINAL STORY] The Savannah College of Art and Design Sand Arts Festival returns to Tybee Island this Friday, transforming the shoreline into a one-day outdoor gallery.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., students and alumni will compete across multiple categories, including sandcastle builds, relief sculptures and creative team challenges, all along South Beach.

The event, which draws thousands each year, dates back to the 1990s and remains one of SCAD’s most popular student traditions.

This year also features a large-scale installation by visiting artist Chris Nitsche, adding an immersive element to the beachside showcase.

The festival is free and open to the public.

EVENT DETAILS

When: Friday, May 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: South Beach Pier and Pavilion, Tybee Island

Admission: Free and open to the public