U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge,

About the event

Named by American Express as one of the top 20 “Must See” seaside festivals in the world and one of USA Today’s Top 10, this renowned event pits preeminent international sand artists worldwide against the best from the States, vying for $60,000 in prize and appearance money and national pride. 2018 (8/31-9/3) marks the 7th consecutive edition on San Diego’s Big Bay downtown.      

40,000+ patrons pay $8-15 to see 20 amazing sand sculptures and purchase over 1,000 artworks in other media like glass, metal, gemstones and wood; enjoy live entertainment and food and beverages (including San Diego craft beers).  200,000 are exposed to sponsor exhibits on the Embarcadero.
 

Children will again be taught to build sandcastles by professional artists, and may also enjoy numerous rides. Part of festival proceeds go to charities dedicated to children’s education and sports.    

Endorsed by civic and government leaders, USSSC is a signature event for the City and Port, generating over 80,000,000 impressions annually.  Coverage includes all TV stations in market, at least 2 major stations in L.A., cable news nets, newspapers, magazines and the web.  According to a Union-Tribune survey of electronic ticket purchasers, 96% came from outside of downtown, with 22% coming from out-of-county. 
 

Why should you sponsor?

Massive exposure to a family audience both on-site (up to 200,000 or more) and through media (est. 80,000,000+ impressions).  Supports children's educational charities.  Proven track record with national, regional and local sponsors.  (Local sponsorships available for $1,500 and up.)

Gordon Summer

The organizer has over 50 years of marketing experience on the national, regional and local levels.  He has won awards from the American Marketing Association, Ad Age and Promotional Marketing Associations, including Best Promotional Marketing Program in the World (AMA and Mktg. Communications Executives International), Best in the U.S. (AMA-2), 10 Best in the U.S. (Ad Age-5), 10 Best of the Decade (Ad Age), Best Regional Campaign.

His job experience includes a stint as Executive Vice-President of the world's 4th largest advertising agency, partner of the nation's 4th ranked promotional marketing agency, marketing chief at a Fortune 50 company, promotional marketing director of the largest soft drink bottling company in the U.S. (he was part of the team that created Sunkist Orange Soda) and more.

He moved from the East Coast to San Diego in 1992.  He has been involved with sand sculpture events for 12 years. He is past president of Arts for Learning (formerly Young Audiences of San Diego), the oldest and most respected arts education organization in the region. In that capacity, he won the prestigious Star Award from the Performing Arts League. 

He executive-produces the U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge and Dimensional Art Exposition with his wife, Joyce, a well-known community leader downtown, and a team of professional event producers, including Bruce Phillips, Steve Zipfel and Tricia Tellier.

Contact the Organizer Contact the Organizer