News Summary
Tybee Island is set to commemorate the 500th anniversary of its European discovery on May 3, 1525, with various events including the SCAD Sand Arts Festival. This historic milestone highlights the island’s significant role in early U.S. history. Activities include sand sculpture competitions and a unique art exhibit titled ‘Deep Dive,’ aimed at connecting ocean and outer space themes. Join the celebrations as Tybee Island honors its rich heritage while engaging the community with artistic expression.
Tybee Island is preparing to celebrate a significant milestone in its history—the 500th anniversary of European discovery, which occurred on May 3, 1525. The Tybee City Council officially designated this date through a proclamation signed on April 24, 2025. The landing, executed by the Spanish explorer Pedro de Quejos and his crew, is one of the earliest recorded European arrivals in what is now the United States, marking a critical point in the island’s historical narrative.
This commemoration comes nearly two centuries before the founding of Savannah, an event of notable historical importance that underscores Tybee Island’s broader role in the country’s early interactions between European explorers and the North American continent.
To mark this milestone, the SCAD Sand Arts Festival will take place on Friday, featuring artists from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The festival is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at South Beach Pier and Pavilion and is free to attend. Participants will showcase their creativity through the construction of sand sculptures in various categories, including Sandcastle, Sand Relief, Air, Sand Jam, and SCAD Spirit. This event is designed to celebrate artistic expression in a beach setting, reflecting SCAD’s belief that the beach environment fosters creativity among its students and alumni.
Jamie Ertle from WTOC will be present on the island Friday afternoon to provide live coverage of the festival, allowing those unable to attend to experience the excitement virtually.
In addition to the sand arts festival, a unique art event titled “Deep Dive” is set for February 14, 2025, at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center. This exhibit will feature bioluminescent-inspired paintings created by artist Cat Ward, who specializes in artwork that reveals exquisite designs under UV lights. The event will run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with an entry fee of $12, which grants attendees full access to both the art exhibit and the marine science center galleries. A special reveal of Cat Ward’s artwork will occur at 6 p.m., enhancing the experiential aspect of the exhibit.
To further enrich the Valentine’s Day experience, attendees will receive a 15% discount on food and drinks at North Beach Grill following the exhibit. “Deep Dive” aims to connect themes of ocean exploration with the concept of outer space, providing a distinctive ambiance for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
This significant anniversary celebration for Tybee Island not only reflects on its rich historical context but also emphasizes its ongoing commitment to community arts and cultural events. The city continues to engage both residents and visitors, fostering a vibrant atmosphere that connects the past with contemporary creativity.
With the dual celebration of history through the 500th anniversary and the arts through events like the SCAD Sand Arts Festival and “Deep Dive,” Tybee Island aims to create a memorable occasion that honors its heritage while also looking toward the future.
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Tybee Island Turns 500
- Wikipedia: Tybee Island
- WTOC: SCAD Students Transform Tybee Island
- Google Search: Tybee Island SCAD event
- Savannah Business Journal: Evening Under the Stars
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tybee Island
- WTOC: School Systems Change Schedules
- Google News: Tybee Island weather
- Savannah Now: Tybee Island Fourth of July
- Google Scholar: Tybee Island
