Galveston sandcastle competition to continue in 2024 after being discontinued
GALVESTON, Texas - After previously announcing the discontinuation of the annual Galveston Beach Sandcastle Competition, city officials announced the event is back on!
Back in October, we reported on the Galveston Park Board stating the Houston chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) would be foregoing its sandcastle competition in Galveston after 37 years.
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The nonprofit organization behind the Sandcastle Competition said the board was demanding thousands of dollars in fees for hosting the competition.
Galveston sandcastle competition discontinued
The sandcastle competition, an annual event that brings in thousands to Galveston Beach each year is no more. The non profit group that organized it claims the Galveston Park Board is suddenly making them pay thousands in fees to host it there. FOX 26's Sherman Desselle has more on the explanation.
On Wednesday, the board announced the Board of Directors of the AIA would continue the competition and fundraiser, which will be taking place on September 21, 2024.
"The Park Board is excited for the return of this beloved event next year, and we appreciate the opportunity to work closely with AIA Houston and find a mutually beneficial solution. The return of the Sandcastle Competition to East Beach promises not only a spectacular event but also strengthens the bond between the AIA and the Galveston community," they said on their Facebook page.
The Galveston board and AIA came to an agreement that includes a five-year commitment to ensure the event is held through 2028 at East Beach in Galveston.