The Southport Plein Air Festival 2026 returns to beautiful downtown Southport, North Carolina, from Thursday, May 7 – Saturday, May 9, 2026. Hosted by Up Your Arts and the City of Southport, this lively three‑day event transforms the historic waterfront town into an open‑air gallery as artists paint “en plein air” (outdoors) along the Cape Fear River, under live‑oak streets, and in scenic nooks throughout the city.
Visitors are invited to watch artists at work, chat with painters, and enjoy a free, family‑friendly festival atmosphere. Saturday features live music, art demonstrations, kids’ activities, and the popular “wet paint” sale in Franklin Square Park, where you can purchase original works created during the festival. The day also includes award presentations, including merit prizes and the People’s Choice Award, whose winning image will be featured on festival T‑shirts and promotional materials for the following year.
Whether you’re an artist looking to participate or a visitor wanting to soak up coastal charm and creativity, the Southport Plein Air Festival offers a relaxed, engaging way to experience Southport’s scenery through the eyes of local and regional talent.