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, 2026.
Paint Out Weekend: July 18th-19th, 2026
Check the guide for full instructions on how to enter. Guidebooks are updated regularly until June, so make sure to continue checking back!
1st Place………………………….$125 & State Fair Ribbon
2nd Place………………………….$75 & State Fair Ribbon
3rd Place…………………………..$50 & State Fair Ribbon
| Placing | Exhibitor Name | Title | Division | Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Nutan Singh | Corndogs and Cotton Candies | Plein Air Artworks | Adult |
| 2nd | Ashleigh Anderson | Sky Lift Fireworks | Plein Air Artworks | Adult |
| 3rd | Paul Glushku | Monorail | Plein Air Artworks | Adult |
| 1st | Arden Jade Han-Wei | Tri-Tip | Plein Air Artworks | Young Adult |
| 2nd | Kristy Yu | Moments Captured | Plein Air Artworks | Young Adult |
| 3rd | Tatiana Young | Polaroid | Plein Air Artworks | Young Adult |
| Dates | Details |
|---|---|
| January 22, 2026 | Entries Open |
| July 10, 2026 | Entries Close |
| July 18-19, 2025 | Paint Out Days |
| July 19, 2026 | Completed Paintings Due |
| July 19, 2026 | Judging Awards at 6:00pm. |
| July 19 or August 7-8, 2026 | Pick-up, 9am – 5pm |
To become a donor for the 2026 California State Photography Competition and donate a prize to the winners of the competition or to become a sponsor and contribute to the overall function of the program please contact us at the information listed above.
Please see the guide for a full list of divisions and classes.
Join the Plein Air newsletter list to get updates on this competition.
You’ll receive competition announcements and reminders.
