Outdoors, from observation, and in natural light
The Adirondack region has long been known as a wonderful, wild vacation retreat and the inspiration for numerous artists, writers, and musicians. The plein air painters who come and take part in this event know that very well, which is what attracts them from all over the country. The Adirondacks is the largest protected area east of the Mississippi, yet it's still within a day's drive of most of the major cities of the Northeast. There are mountains, lakes, rivers, bogs, forests, farms, and small communities — a full variety of subject matter for artists.
Held annually the 3rd week in August, fifty juried artists have many opportunities throughout the week to paint outdoors in the scenic wonders of the Saranac Lake area.
Not a painter? Not to worry. Spectators are warmly invited to witness the creative process unfold amid the classic Adirondack surroundings. Follow the itinerary below to find out where the artists will be painting each day. Then, don’t miss the show and sale at the end of the event, where you can take home a picture-perfect memory of your time in the Adirondacks!
Adirondack Plein Air Festival Events by Day, Aug 18 - 23, 2025, full schedule coming soon!
2025 Festival Schedule
Saturday & Sunday, August 16–17
Pre-Festival Plein Air Workshop with Beth Bathe
Visit the Workshop Page for details and registration.
Monday, August 18
Artist Check-In & Surface Stamping (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Hotel Saranac, 100 Main St., Saranac Lake, NY
Check-in takes place in the Hotel Saranac lobby (easily accessible from the back entrance on Academy Street). Painting may begin immediately after check-in.
"Meet the Artists" Reception & Nocturne Painting (7:00 – 9:00 PM)
Join us at the Hotel Saranac for a welcome reception. Artists are encouraged to explore nocturne painting opportunities afterward.
Tuesday, August 19
Paint the VIC Day – Paul Smith’s College VIC
Enjoy miles of trails and scenic views, including old-growth forests, bogs, marshes, streams, and more. Many great painting spots are located near the VIC building and parking lot. Artists may also paint on the nearby college campus. Trail maps will be available. Bring lunch—nearby food options are limited, though a food truck may be on-site. Painting through the evening is encouraged.
Wednesday, August 20
Paint the Adirondacks Day
Artists are free to paint at a location of their choosing. Reference materials and a map will be included in your welcome packet. Visitors are encouraged to pick up maps at the Adirondack Artists Guild Gallery (52 Main St.) and watch the artists at work.
Evening activity: “Paint the Sunset” at Sunset Bistro with live music at 6:00 PM.
Thursday, August 21
Paint the Town Day
All artists are asked to paint within the Village of Saranac Lake and contribute a small unframed painting (11”×14” or smaller) to the Silent Auction, which begins at 5:00 PM. Free 5×7 canvases will be available, and artists receive 50% of the sale price.
Unframed painting deadline: 4:00 PM at the Adirondack Artists Guild Gallery, 52 Main St.
3rd Thursday ArtWalk (5:00 – 7:30 PM)
Artists and musicians will be set up throughout the village. While participation is optional, artists are welcome to paint during the ArtWalk for additional exposure and to help promote the upcoming Show & Sale. Free live music will be playing at Berkeley Green.
Nocturne Contest
Artists may drop off one framed nocturne painting in the display area on the 2nd floor of the Hotel Saranac anytime during the week. Pick-up is Thursday evening or Friday morning so the artwork can be included in the final Show & Sale.
Celebration of Sandra Hildreth (8:00 PM)
Join us at the Hotel Saranac to celebrate the retirement of our founder, Sandra Hildreth. We’ll toast with sweets and good cheer.
Friday, August 22
Paint the Saranac River Day
Artists may paint at the Saranac Lake Fish & Game Club or at other scenic nearby locations. This is also a good time for artists to get their work framed.
Framed Paintings Due: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the Town Hall
Artists will hang their own work on assigned mesh panel walls (no nails or hammers needed). Paintings must be labeled and hung before 2:00 PM.
Jurying begins at 3:00 PM.
Preview Party (6:00 – 9:00 PM at the Town Hall, 39 Main St.)
Be among the first to view hundreds of fresh paintings created throughout the festival.
Tickets: $25/person (includes beer, wine, and light food)
Free entry for participating artists
Awards presented at 7:30 PM
Tickets available online or at the door
Reception generously sponsored by Hyde Fuel and Franklin County.
Saturday, August 23
Quick Draw Competition – Downtown Saranac Lake
Watch artists race to create a finished painting in just 2 hours! Painting runs from 9:00 – 11:00 AM, followed by public judging on the steps of Town Hall. $250 prize awarded at 11:45 AM.
Show & Sale (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM at the Town Hall)
Meet the artists and browse original plein air works created throughout the week. Free to attend.
The “Paint the Town” Silent Auction closes at 4:00 PM, and the Festival concludes at 5:00 PM.
