Days at the beach mean many things-family, cold drinks, salty water and gritty sand. While many find the intrusive bits of pebble, shell and organic matter to be an obstruction to an otherwise perfect environment, others hail it as a priority for rest and recreation.

Organizing an outlet for these summer artisans, GuangZhou’s Nansha district government will have its first sand sculpture festival at its Beach Park (南沙滨海泳场) this weekend.

The sand sculptures will cover over 10 thousand square meters along the 1000-meter long beach. Pop culture icons like animated characters Cinderella, The Lion King and Doraemon will accompany famous Guangzhou scenes in an attempt to delight spectators.

This Friday at 10:00 (June 17) and 14:30 on Saturday (June 18) the organizers have invited folk performers, belly dancers, Latin and Rumba musicians as well as a drum performance. The festival is scheduled to last about half a year and other events, including soirées and contests will be held during the festival, producing more fun.

The admission is 40 RMB. Visitors can take Metro Line 4 to Jiaomen Station (蕉门站) and transfer by bus to the Tianhou Gong Station (天后宫.)

Famous for its natural scenes, the Nansha district is situated in the most southern part of Guangzhou. Sunflower Garden, Nansha Wetland Park and Nansha Tianhou Palace are the must visited sites.