Art in the open: Oceanside Plein Air Festival returns this September
OCEANSIDE, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Get ready to see artists transform the streets, beaches and scenic landmarks of Oceanside into open-air studios. The 2025 Oceanside Plein Air Festival is set to return Sept. 6-13, bringing with it a celebration of art, nature and community.
Hosted by the Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA), the festival invites artists of all skill levels—from aspiring amateurs to seasoned professionals—to participate in a week of outdoor painting, workshops, friendly competition, and networking.
Artists interested in participating can register now through Sept. 5. Early bird pricing closed on June 30, but general registration is still open. Registration includes access to all communal paint-out events, one ticket to the awards ceremony, entry into the Quick Paint Challenge, and eligibility for multiple awards.
Members of OMA's Art Alliance will receive discounted rates.
Participants will have the opportunity to paint some of Oceanside’s most iconic and picturesque locations, including:
- The historic Mission San Luis Rey
- Oceanside’s scenic coastline and harbor
- Rolling hills and natural lagoons
- The city’s charming urban landscapes
"Plein air" painting—a term borrowed from the French meaning "in the open air"—is all about capturing a moment in time, on location. Artists will kick off the festival at OMA for canvas stamping and check-in, receiving welcome packets with local business highlights and a full event itinerary.
Throughout the week, artists can take part in:
- Group Paint Outs at various scenic spots
- Workshops led by nationally recognized plein air painters
- Networking events with fellow artists and art lovers
- A high-energy Quick Paint Challenge at Mission San Luis Rey, where artists will race against the clock to complete a work in just two hours
The festival wraps up on Saturday, Sept. 13, with a closing ceremony and awards celebration at OMA. The top paintings created during the week will be selected for a juried exhibition, running Sept. 13, 2025, through Jan. 11, 2026.
This exhibition offers collectors and art lovers a chance to purchase original plein air artworks at accessible prices. Both casual attendees and serious collectors are encouraged to explore the gallery and support local and visiting artists.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience Oceanside through the eyes—and brushes—of talented artists from across the region. Whether you're painting or just enjoying the view, the Oceanside Plein Air Festival promises a colorful week full of creativity, culture and community.
For more information, visit the event's webpage.
