THERE ARE GRITTY THINGS... in this world, but the Great Sandcastle Contest, a sandy Carmel-by-the-Sea showdown for over six salty decades, isn't one of them. True, sand is often and accurately described as a gritty substance, but, in spirit, the late-summer showdown is mirthful and distinctly ungritty in tone, giving out upbeat awards and embracing the creativity of all who participate. That includes the sought-after Golden Shovel prize for the ultimate castle builder, a brag-worthy accolade, and the Sour Grapes, which is also brag-worthy in its own wonderful way. And if you really, totally, have to win? There may be other routes to victory. "And because bribery (non-monetary) is encouraged, it's not unusual to see platters of food, bottles of wine, chair massages and other indulgences being offered to the people in charge," is the organizers' zestily unorthodox recommendation.
SEPTEMBER 19... is the 2026 date, making the event a merry way to send off summer, though some Carmelists may accurately argue that summer is just getting going as fall arrives on the peninsula, with sunnier days making welcome cameos. The theme of the competition, which is the 63rd outing, so impressive, will be revealed as September gets closer. As for where to go with your buckets and shovels and imagination in tow? Carmel Beach (just "... down from Scenic Road between 10th & 12th"). And the people behind it? The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, oh yes, is at the helm, alongside the Monterey Bay chapter of the American Institute of Architects. More good times are afoot in the storybook city as the official summer season comes to a close: Check out the quirky and cool calendar here.
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