A painting of a forest and mountains reflected in a lake at Big Bear.

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.

Big Bear Plein Air Art Competition 2026 event poster featuring painting dates, gallery exhibition, awards ceremony, and artist festival events in Big Bear Lake

Hosted by Visit Big Bear, this event is more than just a painting competition. Now in its 3rd year, It’s a celebration of creativity, the outdoors, and community, while also encouraging artists to wander through Big Bear’s breathtaking scenery all across the fall season. Visitors can watch artists at work, attend gallery events, and experience the creative spirit that makes Big Bear Lake a favorite destination for artists and art lovers alike.

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 participating artists and learn the inspiration behind their work.
Festival of Artist Events: Enjoy gallery shows, paint-outs, and community art experiences throughout the competition.

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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 12 – October 10, 2026:Create!
Artists can visit Big Bear Valley throughout this period to explore, create, and submit their artwork. Artists may complete their paintings during one visit or return multiple times to capture their favorite landscapes.
October 14 – 17, 2026:Show!
View submitted artwork at the Competition Gallery located at Destination Big Bear Event Room, 713 Stocker Rd, Big Bear Lake.
October 18, 2026:Celebrate!
Join the Awards Ceremony at 10:00 AM at the Destination Big Bear Event Room.

Competition Gallery @ Destination Big Bear Event Room – October 14th – 17th, 2026

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: Visit Big Bear
Venue: Destination Big Bear Event Room
Location: Big Bear Lake, CA
Address: 713 Stocker Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Dates: September 12 – October 18, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
More Info: Click here