TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. – Treasure Island is getting ready to transform its shoreline into a massive outdoor gallery this November as Sanding Ovations returns with a rhythm-heavy theme: “Music is the Key.”
Presented by Visit St. Pete-Clearwater, the 2026 festival will feature master sculptors carving tribute pieces that honor the genres and sounds that have defined generations, ranging from jazz and pop to classic rock and country.
The main event is scheduled to run from November 19 through November 22, but the festivities won’t stop there. Organizers have added an “All-American Encore Weekend” on November 28 and 29 to keep the momentum going.
This second weekend will pull double duty, continuing the musical theme while simultaneously celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Visitors can expect a stadium-like atmosphere on the sand, complete with big screens for football games and interactive activities.
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The transition into that encore weekend starts early on Friday, November 27. The Bilmar Beach Resort and Sloppy Joe’s are slated to host live music during the day before shifting into a poolside game-watching party that evening. Throughout the entire event, the Sanding Ovations area will remain open for guests to browse local vendors and view the finished sand masterpieces.
As Treasure Island’s signature annual event, the festival has become a major draw for both international artists and tourists. Beyond the sculpting competition, the 2026 schedule includes six days of live music, a kite festival, and a large-scale fireworks display.
According to event organizers, it is “where laid-back beach vibes meet world-class artistry,” serving as a primary driver for the area’s reputation as a top-tier travel destination.
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