Plein Air at the Fair Contest

Capturing the iconic images of the California State Fair

Both novice and experts alike are invited to capture the iconic images of the California State Fair! Come create a painting “en Plein Aire” – a French term literally translated as “In Open Air.”

Top three paintings at the end of the weekend will be awarded first, second and third place cash prizes and displayed for the duration of the Fair.

This contest is open to California residents, adults and those who have reached 13 years of age as of January 1, 2023.

Paint Out Weekend: TBA

How to Enter

Check the guide for full instructions on how to enter. Guidebooks are updated regularly until June, so make sure to continue checking back!

2024 California Fine Art Competition Guide

Step by Step Online Instructions How to Enter

Enter Now

2024 Competitive Programs Shipping Form Coming Soon

2024 Demonstrator Information

2024 Demonstration Application Coming Soon

2024 California State Fair Art Docent Program

2024 Docent Handbook Coming Soon

2024 Art Docent Schedule Sign-up Coming Soon

2023 Arts Competition Judges

Adult Plein-Air Competition Results

  • 1st Place: Paul Glushku
  • 2nd Place: John Atkinson
  • 3rd Place: Alayna Hudson
  • 4th Place: Yvonne Bonacci

Youth Plein-Air Competition Results

  • 1st Place: Tatiana Young
  • 2nd Place: Katheryn Slavik
  • 3rd Place: Nicole Wang
Past Results Archive

Delgreta Brown

Fine Art Coordinator

(916) 263-3135

fineart@calexpo.com

Prize Donor

Competition Dates

Dates Details
March 4, 2024 Entries Open registration online
July 7, 2024 Plein Air Entry Close online at 11:59 pm & entry fees must be paid
July 27-28, 2024 Painting is done around the fair grounds
July 28, 2024 Completed paintings submitted to building 7 by 4 pm
July 28, 2024 Plein Air Competition Awards 6:00pm, indoors, inside Building 7, Fine Arts Exhibit Hall at the Expo Center
July 28 or August 3, 2024 Plein Air Artwork can be picked up

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Plein Air at the Fair Contest

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