The 2025 Door County Plein Air Festival returns this summer, inviting art lovers and nature enthusiasts to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Door County, Wisconsin through the eyes of some of the nation’s leading plein air painters. Running from July 20–26, the weeklong festival features live outdoor painting, artist demonstrations, art sales, and exclusive events. All set against the region’s iconic scenery.
Festival Highlights Include:
- Live Plein Air Painting – Watch artists at work in picturesque Door County settings like Egg Harbor, Elison Bay, Fish Creek, Sister Bay, and Sturgeon Bay throughout the week.
- Exclusive Events for Palette Pass Holders – Enjoy VIP access to private receptions, artist talks, and a Collector’s Preview Event, complete with food, beverages, and live music with purchase of a Palette Pass.
- Quick Paint & Auction (July 26, Fish Creek) – Experience the thrill as artists complete a painting in under two hours during the Quick Paint, followed by a live auction at PenArt where attendees can bid on the finished works.
- Open Door Celebration (July 26) – Tour the Peninsula School of Art gallery and campus, enjoy local food trucks and beverages, and listen to live music by Cathy Grier before the final auction.
This year’s festival proudly continues featuring several outstanding artists from Wisconsin. Marc Andersen, a celebrated Door County landscape painter and recipient of the 2024 Artist’s Choice Award, returns to capture the peninsula’s natural beauty on-site. Hector Acuna, based in Grafton, brings his narrative-driven plein air work back to Door County. Also joining the roster from Wisconsin is Bethann Moran-Handzlik, whose rich works can also be found at Edgewood Orchard Galleries in Fish Creek.
Throughout the week, festival attendees will have the rare opportunity to meet artists, observe their creative process, and purchase original paintings directly. The event concludes with a public art sale at Peninsula School of Art during the Open Door Celebration on Saturday, July 26.
The 2025 Door County Plein Air Festival offers an immersive celebration of creativity, community, and the region’s natural splendor. With intimate Q&As, family-friendly events, and the presence of gifted artists, it promises to be an unforgettable summer highlight for all ages.
For more information about the festival schedule, ticketing, and to purchase a Palette Pass for exclusive access to events, visit www.peninsulaschoolofart.org/doorcountypleinair or call 920-868-3455.
