Sandcastles

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The American Institute of Architects SandCastle Competition is a fundraiser for AIA Houston and ArCH Foundation, as well as one of the top five revenue generating events for the City of Galveston. Today’s event, the 33rd annual, featured over 60 teams, all vying to win the prestigious Golden Bucket Award.

Participating architectural firms began making plans for their entries months ago, putting in lots of hours generating ideas, developing designs and assigning duties.

Each year, the teams, stretched along the beach front, meticulously sculpt their piles of sand and work nonstop for five hours. All the while, locals and visitors alike descend on East Beach, unload their cars and trucks, put up large sun-protecting tents and, ultimately, decorate them with beach chairs ice chests and an impressive assortment of their favorite foods and beverages. When all is ready, these fans of the competition will split their time walking the beach to see the massive creations come together and relaxing with friends and family in the shade of their temporary shelters.

The judging of the sculptures is rated on originality of concept, artistic execution, technical difficulty, carving techniqu, and utilization of the site. In addition to the Golden Bucket, awards are given in several categories, including Best Traditional Castle, Best Architectural Icon, Kidtastic! – LEGO Edition, Best Science Fiction, Best Sports and Houston-centric, as well as best team t-shirt design, best team signage, best costume and public favorite.

At the end of the day, everyone goes home sandy, sunbaked and spent. And, to be sure, with lots of great memories of a truly unique experience.