Plein Air Painting

Paint or draw a scene at the Fair

Artists can paint or draw a scene at the San Diego County Fair in our popular Plein Air Painting contest, and win cash prizes, ribbons, and recognition!

The Fine Print

Got questions? Here is more information about this contest.

Who's eligible?

Adults 18 and older may enter this contest.

What can I win?

Cash awards and ribbons. Please see the contest materials for specifics.

How does the contest work?

Artists register in advance. On the day of the contest, they bring up to three surfaces (canvas, paper, board, etc.) to be stamped. Artists spend the day painting or drawing a scene. Only one submission will be judged. See the contest materials for other details on how the contest works.

What does it cost?

Plein Air costs $15 to enter, but your entry fee includes free Fair admission and parking. Processing fees are non-refundable. One entry per exhibitor.

How can I enter my artwork in the Fair?

See our Competitive Exhibits section for information on entering artwork in the Fair’s Fine Art exhibit.

Need help?

Get in touch online or call us at (858) 792-4207.

Entry Information

Entry deadline: Entries are now closed for this contest.
Contest dates: Thursday, June 20, 2019.

Contest Info
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2019 Results

Oil/Acrylic

First – Jack Ragland, Fallbrook
Second – Matthew Pinkey, Santee
Third – Sean Hnedak, San Diego

Water Media, Drawing, Pastel or Other Media

First – Keiko Tanabe, Carlsbad
Second – Brian Meyer, Lemon Grove
Third – Luis Juarez, San Diego

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We’re the San Diego County Fair and we send fun emails.
If you sign up for our email list, we pinky swear that we’ll only send you the good stuff. (must be at least 13 years old)