Each sculpture project utilizes an average of 3,000,000 kilograms of sand annually.
The sculptures are built using specialized sand that contains a small amount of clay, allowing for better compaction and structural integrity.
Local volunteers and international professional artists collaborate on the construction process every May.
The sand used is sourced from local pits in the South Karelia region.
Sculptures are sprayed with a protective water-based sealant to prevent erosion from Baltic weather.
After the summer exhibition ends, the sand is recycled and used for local construction projects or landscaping.
Sandcastle Lappeenranta is a large-scale seasonal outdoor exhibition of monumental sand sculptures located in the Lappeenranta harbor area. Each summer, professional sculptors from various countries use several million kilograms of sand to create intricate, themed structures. The theme changes annually, often focusing on history, fantasy, or Finnish culture. The site is constructed specifically for the summer season and requires complete reconstruction every year due to the nature of the material. It serves as a focal point for family activities in the harbor area, featuring designated play areas and workshops. The structures are typically treated with a biodegradable adhesive to maintain their shape against wind and rain throughout the summer months. It is one of the largest sand sculpture exhibitions in the Nordic region. The site layout is designed to be fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
The elevated viewing platform at the edge of the site, which offers a wide-angle perspective of the entire sculpture park.
Check the official website for the current year's theme before visiting.
Visit on a weekday morning to avoid peak weekend crowds.
Combine the visit with a walk along the nearby fortress embankment.
Do not touch or climb on the sculptures, as the sand structures are fragile and protected by barriers.
Open only during the summer season, typically from early June to late August; closed during autumn and winter months.
