June 29th - July 1st, 2012 ~ The annual Five Star Dealerships Sand & Sawdust Festival was held over the weekend and it was a great success. Rain threatened the vent, but Saturday brought rain-free weather. There were some very detailed and awesome works of sand art. The winner of the Masters Division was "Backyard Battle" (see picture to the left), which was one of my personal favorites. My other personal favorites were "Solid Rock & Sinking Sand," "Who's Next?," "Reigning Cats & Dogs," and "Tree of Life." Check out the pictures below with the winners listed.

The crisp cedar smells permeated the air at the Woodcarving Competitions in front of the Convention Center, which always produces many pieces of art. Master Chainsaw Carvers from around the world and the United States compete for thousands of dollars in prizes. Competition took place from 9-4 on Friday and Saturday and 8-1 on Sunday. The Awards Ceremony and Auction was held on Sunday at 4pm. You will have to wait until next year to have a chance to take home a piece of original art!

Additional activities at the Convention Center included approximately 100 Food and Craft Vendors.

See the Video Tour to see my video of the Sandcastle Competitions.