Over 60,000 visitors are expected to marvel at intricate, gravity-defying creations crafted entirely from sand and clay, all built around this year’s playful “Showtime” theme.
Sculptures feature characters from Charlie Chaplin to circus clowns, brought to life by 16 international artists working against the clock.
The festival, running until 19 October, uses a special sand mix with added clay to withstand the summer weather.
Organisers say the event blends artistry, humour and nostalgia, transforming simple grains into striking, theatrical forms that draw gasps of disbelief from onlookers each year.
