Plein Air Painting Events
We celebrate the art of outdoor painting by connecting artists with festivals, competitions, and communities nationwide. Whether you’re a seasoned plein air painter or new to the scene, this directory helps you plan your next artistic adventure.
Pike Road Paint Out
October 8-11, 2026
State: Alabama
City: Pike Road
Muscatine Plein Air Paint Out
September 4 - 6, 2026
State: Iowa
City: Muscatine
Fairfield Paintout
September 22-26, 2026
State: Illinois
City: Fairfield
PAPNM 18th Juried National Exhibition
September 11 through October 16, 2026
State: New Mexico
City: Los Alamos
Plein Air @ Altitude
August 27-September 6, 2026
State: Colorado
City: Winter Park
Edisto Plein Air Paint Out
October 13 - 17, 2026
State: South Carolina
City: Edisto Beach
Olmsted Plein Air Invitational
April 18-26, 2026
State: Georgia
City: Atlanta
Frank Bette Plein Air Paintout
July 27-August 1, 2026
State: California
City: Alameda
Plein Air Painting Resources
What to Expect at Your First Plein Air Festival: A Complete Attendee Guide
Your First Festival: What's in Store Plein air festivals are unlike any other art event. They're part competition, part community gathering, part masterclass — and entirely driven by the act of painting outside together. If you've never attended one before, knowing...
Pochade Box vs. French Easel: Which Is Right for Your Plein Air Setup?
The Two Camps Ask a room full of plein air painters which setup they prefer and you'll start a spirited debate. The French easel is a classic icon, beloved for its romance and self-contained design. The pochade box-and-tripod system is the modern standard, prized for...
What Is Plein Air Painting? A Beginner’s Complete Guide
What Does 'Plein Air' Actually Mean? If you've heard the term "plein air" and wondered what it means, you're not alone. Plein air (pronounced 'plen air') is a French phrase meaning 'in the open air.' In the art world, it simply refers to painting outdoors — setting up...
The Complete Plein Air Equipment Guide: Everything You Need to Paint Outdoors
The Golden Rule: Pack Light Before we get into specific gear, the most important principle in outfitting yourself for plein air painting is this: the lighter your kit, the more locations become accessible, the less fatigued you'll be, and the more focused you can stay...