The 2026 Door County Plein Air Festival returns, 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 19–25, the weeklong festival features live outdoor painting, artist demonstrations, art sales, and exclusive events. All set against the region’s iconic scenery.
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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.
Each year the invitations committee selects between 32 to 37 of the finest painters to participate in the Door County Plein Air Festival. These artists represent the breadth and scope of contemporary plein air painting from across the U.S.
Festival Highlights Include:
- Live Plein Air Painting – Watch artists at work in picturesque Door County settings like Egg Harbor, Baileys Harbor, 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 – 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 – Tour the Peninsula School of Art gallery and campus, enjoy local food trucks and beverages, and listen to live music before the final auction.
The 2026 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.
Looking for ways to improve your painting skills?
Don’t miss your opportunity to create lifetime memories at the Plein Air Convention & Expo! All training sessions are indoors on giant, high-def screens, with incredible paint-outs in the afternoons. Beginners and pros feel right at home, so register at PleinAirConvention.com to join us.
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Announcement prepared for the web by Cherie Dawn Haas, Editor of Plein Air Today
