Annual Adirondack Plein Air Festival
When and Where
Date and Time
Address
Cost
About this event
Enjoy the annual Adirondack Plein Air Festival!
2026 Festival Schedule
Saturday & Sunday, August 15–16
Pre-Festival Plein Air Workshop with Cynthia Rosen.
Visit saranaclakeartworks.org for details and registration.
Monday, August 17:
"Meet the Artists" Meet the 40 artists participating in the festival! The public is welcome to the “Meet the Artists” reception hosted by the Hotel Saranac in their Great Hall Bar & Terrace from 7-9pm.
Tuesday, August 18:
“Paint the VIC” - Artists will be at Paul Smith’s College VIC, a wonderful introduction to the Adirondack landscape with miles of easy hiking trails, mountain views, wetlands, forests, and more. Spectators are welcome to come and watch the artists paint!
Wednesday, August 19:
“Catch of the Day" painting contest. Join us at the Saranac Lake Fish & Game Club anytime from 1-7pm. Plein Air Artists will cast their lines into the landscape, snagging river light and mountain silhouettes. Whether it’s a trophy trout or a jaw‑dropping view, come see what gets hooked this year.
Thursday, August 20:
“Paint the Town” - Artists paint in the Village of Saranac Lake and produce small paintings for the silent auction. The Third Thursday ArtWalk will take place from 5-7:30pm, featuring live music, art displays, and demonstrations Downtown. The “Nocturne Contest” Judging will be announced at 7:30pm at Hotel Saranac.
Friday, August 21:
"Paint the Adirondacks" - Artists are free to choose their own painting locations.
Preview Party (6:00 – 9:00 PM at the Town Hall, 39 Main St.)
Be among the first to view hundreds of fresh paintings created throughout the festival.
Tickets: $25/person (includes beer, wine, and light food)
Awards presented at 7:30 PM
Tickets available online or at the door
Reception generously sponsored by Hyde Fuel and Franklin County.
Saturday, August 22:
Quick Draw Competition – Downtown Saranac Lake
Watch artists race to create a finished painting in just 2 hours! Painting runs from 9:00 – 11:00 AM, followed by public judging on the steps of Town Hall. $250 prize awarded at 11:45 AM.
Show & Sale (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM at the Town Hall)
Meet the artists and browse original plein air works created throughout the week. Free to attend.
The “Paint the Town” Silent Auction closes at 4:00 PM, and the Festival concludes at 5:00 PM.
https://www.saranaclake.com/events/plein-air-festival
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Event times and information subject to change and not guaranteed.