
The Avalon Foundation and the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism have won the Transactional Opportunities Award at the 2024 Maryland Tourism Awards, highlighting the success of the Plein Air Easton Competition and Arts Festival. Recognized during the 43rd Annual Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit, this accolade underscores the festival’s role in driving economic growth and enhancing Talbot County’s tourism appeal.
Plein Air Easton, the largest outdoor painting competition in the U.S., attracts 6,000–8,000 annual visitors with events like painting demonstrations, workshops, and artist meet-and-greet sessions. This has boosted local hospitality, dining, and retail sectors by over 30%. Cassandra Vanhooser, director of Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism, credited the award to the community’s collaborative efforts in elevating Easton as a cultural destination.
More information about Plein Air Easton is available at pleinaireaston.com.