What amazing work of art is waiting for you to dig it our of the sand? Join in the Ocracoke 4th of July Sand Sculpture Contest and bring your imagination (and your sand shovels!)
The oldest continuous Independence Day celebration on Ocracoke is the Sand Sculpture Contest, now in its 41st year! Participants of all ages compete for bragging rights and cash prizes.
The event is held at the Ocracoke Day Use Area of the beach (a.k.a. the Lifeguard Beach) and begins not one minute sooner than 9:30am.
"It's okay to arrive earlier and scope your spot," says Sand Sculpture Contest organizer Angie Todd. "But no digging! You can't dig until 9:30am. I'm very strict about that!" (Angie owns Angie's Gym and has the muscles to prove it. Don't mess with her.)
You can enter as an individual in one of two categories: Individual 12 & under or Individual 13 & over. Groups of any size are also categorized by age: Group 12 & under or Group 13 & over. Look for Angie's registration station behind the Lifeguard Stand to sign in.
Spectators are welcome wander out to view the sculptures – try to get there by about 11:30am. The "Best in Show" prize is a popularity contest, and anyone and everyone can cast a vote their favorite! Voting ends at precisely 12:00 noon. Not 12:01!
Awards are announced and prizes distributed by 12:30pm at the beach, and again at 7pm from the stage at Books to Be Red in the village.
Ocracoke’s 4th of July Sand Sculpture Contest Guidelines
Amateurs only
No mechanical equipment, artificial sprays or glue
No protected plants or wildlife
May only use things found on the beach
Parents must let 12 & under entrants do it all by themselves (sorry mom and dad – no helping!)
All entrants please come back to the registration table at 12:30pm for the results and prizes (we have cash and we’re giving it away, kids!)
Everyone on the beach may vote for “Best in Show”
Voting closes at 12:00pm sharp!
Please use the entrant’s number when voting for your vote to count.
Have fun!