(Michigan City, IN) - The return of the Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival to Michigan City’s Washington Park will feature a new amateur competition helping to raise funds for local LaPorte County charities.

 

“The Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival Community Challenge” will take place on Saturday, June 10, as a part of the three-day sand sculpting festival scheduled for June 9, 10 and 11. The Community Challenge will allow local businesses, professional groups, service organizations and anyone that wants to participate a chance to raise funds for the charity of their choice.

 

The entry fee per six-person team is $2,000 with half of that fee going to local charities. Officials said the goal is to secure anywhere from 20 to 30 teams.

 

“The Community Challenge gives us a chance to give back to our community and allow groups to experience the fun and satisfaction of this incredible art form. By securing 20 teams, we will be able to put $20,000 back in to our community. If we can reach 30 teams, $30,000 can make a big impact on our local charities,” said Terry Greetham, Director of Special Events for the city.

 

Teams will create a unique sand sculpture with the only requirements being it must include their group name and the name or logo of the charity they are representing.

 

Teams will be given hands-on training by professional sand sculptors along with an equal amount of sand and time to create their sculpture, officials said. The sculptures will then be judged by the professional sand sculptors, and medals will be given to the top five teams.

 

“This is such a great addition to this amazing event,” said Mayor Duane Parry.

 

Teams can register for the Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival Community Challenge by contacting Eric Williams at ewilliams@emichigancity.com.