International Sand Sculpture Festival (FIESA) – Portugal 2025

Background & History

The International Sand Sculpture Festival, known as FIESA, began in 2003 in Pêra, Portugal, as a unique and innovative art event in Europe. Over the years, it has grown into Sand City, the largest sand sculpture exhibition in the world, now located in Lagoa on the EN125. More than 60 talented artists from various countries transform over 45,000 tons of sand into over 120 intricate sculptures, covering 50,000 square meters. The event blends artistry, culture, and family entertainment, making it a must-visit attraction in the Algarve.

Event Highlights

• Main activities or performances:
  • Large-scale sand sculpture exhibition with over 120 works of art.
  • Live demonstrations and workshops on sand sculpting techniques.
  • Cultural program with activities and shows.
• Special traditions or features:
  • Ever-changing themes each year.
  • Pet-friendly policy allowing leashed animals.
  • Fish Spa experience for visitors.
• Unique attractions for visitors:
  • Electric buggy tours through the exhibition grounds.
  • Rest areas with shaded seating.
  • Souvenir shop with unique Sand City merchandise.

Date & Duration

Opening Hours 2025:

• 24 March – 29 June: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
• 30 June – 14 September: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
• 15 September – 9 November: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
  Duration: Over 7 months (seasonal exhibition)

Last admission: 30 minutes before closing.

Venue / Location

Location: Sand City, 4HCP+RX, Lagoa, Portugal
Parking: Over 300 parking spaces available, including bus parking.

Contact Information

Phone: +351 969 459 259
Email: geral@prosandart.com
Website: sandcity.pt

Ticket Information

• Adults (13–64): $13.00
• Seniors (65+): $10.35
• Children (6–12): $6.40
• Children (0–5): Free
• Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children): $32.60
• Group Rate (10+ adults): $11.68

Cultural Experience

Visitors will experience a blend of artistic mastery and cultural storytelling through themed sand sculptures depicting famous personalities, historic scenes, and imaginative worlds. The event features live sculpting, interactive spaces for guests to create their own works, and a relaxed, open-air environment.

Food & Drinks

A snack bar is available from July to November, offering light meals, cold drinks, and coffee. Outside food and drinks are not permitted.

Family & Accessibility

• Family-friendly with areas for children to engage in sand sculpture activities.
• Pet-friendly with rules for leashes and cleanliness.
• Reduced mobility visitors can use electric buggies (limited availability).
• Surfaces are sandy and uneven; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Getting There

• Nearest Airport: Faro Airport (FAO) – approx. 45 minutes by car.
• By Car: Directly accessible from EN125 between Lagoa and Porches.
• Public Transport: Regional buses and taxis are available.
• Parking: Large on-site parking area with easy access.