Port Aransas, Texas is bracing for an influx of tourists and art enthusiasts as it prepares for its annual beachfront spectacle – the Texas SandFest. Scheduled to run from April 18th to April 21st, this coastal showcase promises to churn the sands into a medley of masterpieces with artists from around the globe at the helm.

The streets of Port Aransas are set to transform with the scent of saltwater and the sounds of live music as the SandFest engulfs the area between Marker 13 and 17 along the beach. With the competition beginning at noon on Friday, those in attendance can expect sand sculpting prowess to be on full display, well, into the evenings of the weekend. As per KENS5, coordinator Suzanne Altamare, who's been at the helm since 2005, stated, "It's just also nice because when you do sand sculptor you can let your imagination come out into the world for people to see, and that's the best part and it inspires people," she added, "It inspires them to try music or sculpture or drawing. It really is an inspirational thing for people."

This isn't just a local street fair but the largest beach sand sculpture competition in the U.S. It's a creative battleground where 19 elite artists, veterans, and newcomers alike, are invited to showcase their talents in the sand – a medium as volatile as it is temporary. Precision and originality are king in this sandy arena, where a few local sculptors join their international counterparts to vie for the top honors, as reported by the local Port Aransas event page.

Proceeds from the event aid local charities and provide scholarships for Port Aransas High School students. Behind the scenes, a dedicated force of local volunteers strives to ensure the fest's success, which caters to families and adults in search of novel seaside entertainment. Amidst the sandy sculptures, local vendors and a live entertainment stage provide a backdrop for a uniquely Texan vibe.

While artists wield their shovels and sculpting tools, families can enjoy the revelry without breaking the bank – kids aged 12 and under enter free, and wristbands grant access to all three days of the event.