2025 Event Calendar
Cape Ann Plein Air Nocturne
Experience the magic of art under the harvest moon! Join us for this enchanting evening as talented plein air artists capture the beauty of Essex's historic causeway bathed in moonlight during the beloved Essex Shipyard Museum Harvest Moon Festival.
Watch creativity unfold in real-time as artists work by the glow of the harvest moon, creating stunning nocturne paintings that celebrate the unique atmosphere of this special autumn evening. This popular public art event combines the charm of Essex's maritime heritage with the wonder of outdoor painting.
Make it a Perfect Evening: Arrive early to watch the artists set up, then enjoy dinner at one of Essex's fantastic downtown restaurants: The James, Googan's Galley, Shipyard Tavern, CK Pearl, Woodman's
Return after dinner to see the paintings progress under the moonlight - it's a magical sight you won't want to miss!
Free to attend | All ages welcome | Perfect for art lovers and families alike
Come for the art, stay for the moon!
Cape Ann Plein Air Opening Reception, “Meet the Artists” Welcome Party
Join us for an evening at Gloucester's Beauport Hotel, nestled right on the harbor! Meet our incredible lineup of 35 talented plein air artists as they showcase their first masterpieces of the event.
Some of our artists will even be painting live throughout the evening!
Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and drinks from the bar while you mingle with artists and friends.
It's the perfect blend of coastal charm, artistic inspiration, and community celebration.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience Cape Ann through the eyes of our remarkable painters in one of Gloucester's most picturesque settings!
This is a free event; Limited tickets available, Reservations Required. Stay Tuned for Details.
Cape Ann Plein Air’s Gala and Art Sale
SAVE THE DATE!
Cape Ann Plein Air’s Gala and Art Sale
Friday, October 10, 2025 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
North Shore Arts Association, Gloucester, MA
Experience the culmination of artistic inspiration as 35 talented plein air artists showcase over 175 fresh paintings created during this extraordinary week-long event. Join us for an evening where art and celebration converge at the historic North Shore Arts Association in Gloucester, MA.
Cape Ann Plein Air QuickDraw
Cape Ann Plein Air’s Quick Draw is being held in downtown Manchester-by-the-Sea on Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 9am-2pm! (artist check-in 8am)
Over 100 artists will have just two hours to complete their works, before their work will be displayed on easels for visitors and buyers to peruse or take home. All artworks created will be available for sale.
$2,000 in prizes are awarded to the top painters by two selected judges, the energy and excitement will be high, along with the quality of work. Juried and non juried artists will be judged separately.
Registration opens September 1!