This weekend at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market, it’s going to feel a lot like the beach, just without the waves!

Starting Friday afternoon and going through Sunday, the Downtown Market is hosting their first summer sand festival, dubbed Sand Rapids.

“We’re excited to bring a new, free event to the Market and invite the community out to watch something they may have never seen before," said Mimi Fritz, president and CEO of the Downtown Market told The Rapidian. “The Market aims to be a vibrant gathering place for all, which is why we love hosting events that take advantage of our unique outdoor space in the summer.”

The Downtown market is bringing in over 30 tons of sand for the event.  Professional carvers will work over the weekend making different sand sculptures under the Market Shed.

Friday afternoon competition will heat up as local sponsor groups will be competing in the amateur sand sculpting event.

Kids will even be able to get in the action as there will be a giant sand box on site too, giving them a chance to play and try to create different sculptures.  Even older kids will have games around the Market shed that they can participate in.

Get the full beach experience by also enjoying the “sand bar” which will feature locally made cocktails and summer punches.

If you can’t make it to the event this weekend, don’t worry.  Unlike ice carvings, the sand sculptures will be around for the next weekend for everyone to stop by and enjoy.

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