Big Bear Plein Air: Art in the Mountains

Experience the beauty of Big Bear Lake through the eyes of talented plein air artists during the annual Big Bear Plein Air Art Competition. This much-anticipated event gathers skilled painters from across the region to capture the natural charm of our mountain town, all done live and on location.

Pop-Up Gallery Destination Big Bear - Flyer with images of plein air paintings above it.

Hosted by the The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley, this event is more than just a painting competition. It’s a celebration of creativity, nature, and community, inviting both locals and visitors to witness the artistic process as it happens, surrounded by Big Bear’s scenic backdrops.

Big Bear Performing Arts & Theatre Event Highlights

Discover the creative pulse of Big Bear through live shows, stage performances, and cultural gatherings. From local talent to seasonal showcases, these events bring energy, expression, and entertainment to the mountains.

Live Painting Sessions: Watch artists paint Big Bear’s landscapes in real-time at scenic locations.
Public Art Show & Sale: View and purchase original artwork created during the competition.
Artist Meet & Greet: Meet with the painters and learn the stories behind their pieces.
Community Voting: Cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award at the final exhibit.

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Big Bear Plein Air Art Competition Schedule

Here’s your guide to everything happening during the Big Bear Plein Air Art Competition. From outdoor painting sessions to art shows and award celebrations, this schedule has all the highlights you won't want to miss.

September 15 – October 15: Paint & Submit Artists will head outdoors to capture the beauty of Big Bear Lake on canvas.
October 17–25: Public Art Exhibition Visit the Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center (Hofert Hall, 39707 Big Bear Blvd) to view the stunning collection of submitted works. The gallery is open to the public and showcases the very best of this year’s competition.
October 26: Awards & Celebration Join in for the Awards Ceremony at 10:30 AM at Hofert Hall.

Plein Air – Pop-Up Gallery @ Destination Big Bear Event Center – October 3rd – 5th, 2025

Awards & Recognition

The Big Bear Plein Air Art Competition honors artistic excellence with generous cash prizes and community recognition:

1st Place: $2,000 for outstanding artwork
2nd Place: $1,500 for creative distinction
3rd Place: $500 for artistic vision
People’s Choice – Diane McClary Award: $2,000 as voted by the public

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Plein Air Art Competition: Destination Big Bear!

Experience Big Bear Lake through the eyes of talented plein air artists as they paint live across the mountains, lakes, and trails. This open-air art event brings creativity outdoors and invites the community to celebrate art in its purest form.

Organizer: The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley
Venue: Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center
Location: Big Bear Lake, CA
Address: 39707 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Dates: September 15, 2025 – October 26, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
More Info: Click here