The brushes come out in
September 13–19, 2026 · Douglas & Sarpy County
Don't miss a brushstroke.
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Subscribe for UpdatesPlein air — French for "open air" — is exactly what it sounds like. No studio, no reference photos, no do-overs. Just an artist, an easel, and whatever the light is doing right now.
For one week each September, 25 nationally recognized plein air artists descend on the Omaha metro to paint the neighborhoods, landmarks, and hidden corners that make this place worth capturing. Every painting is created on-site, in real time, in front of anyone who happens to wander by.
All week-long painting events are free and open to the public. Artists will be working at locations throughout Douglas and Sarpy Counties — follow along on social media for daily location updates. There's no velvet rope. No admission fee. Just artists at work, and you're invited to watch.
Where to find us
Click any marker to see what's happening at that location and jump to the day in the schedule.
Sat · Sep 12
Free · PublicBefore the festival officially opens, young artists get the spotlight. Local youth take their easels to Wildwood Park for a morning of open-air painting — then celebrate their work at the Youth Art Show Reception that evening at the Baright Public Library.
Sun · Sep 13
Artists OnlyThe invited artists gather for check-in, canvas stamping, and orientation. The calm before the paint flies.
Mon · Sep 14
Free · PublicStarting today and running through Friday, artists fan out across Douglas and Sarpy Counties — painting historic neighborhoods, scenic vistas, and local landmarks. You might turn a corner and find one set up right in front of you. Stop and watch. Ask a question. That's the point. At midday, the action kicks off in Downtown Ralston's Hinge Creative District for the first Lunch Break Paintout.
Tue · Sep 15
Free · PublicAnother day of painting across the metro, with the Lunch Break Paintout heading to the Castle & Cathedral Creative District — home to Joslyn Castle and St. Cecilia's Cathedral. Grab lunch nearby and stay to watch.
Wed · Sep 16
Free · PublicThe midweek Lunch Break Paintout heads to the Benson Creative District. That afternoon, invited festival artists meet privately with preselected youth participants — this portion of the day is not open to the public.
Thu · Sep 17
Free · PublicBy day, artists paint through the Dundee Creative District. By evening, the energy shifts to Ralston for Third Thursday — one of the week's most memorable nights. Festival Awards Judge Rick J. Delanty presents a ticketed lecture on Impressionism and Plein Air at the Baright Public Library. Afterward, artists spread out across downtown Ralston, painting live while the concert plays around them. Come mingle, watch, and take it all in — this is not a Quick Paint event.
Fri · Sep 18
Tickets RequiredArtists deliver their completed festival paintings in the morning. That evening, the Collector's Soirée at The Granary brings together art, music, food, and the first opportunity to purchase works from the festival's collection at the artist's listed price. Awards are announced and artists are celebrated. Tickets required.
Sat · Sep 19
Free · PublicThe festival closes with a full day open to all. Watch artists compete in the Quick Paint Competition at 9 AM, then browse every painting made during festival week at the Public Exhibition & Sale — artwork available at the artist's listed price. At noon, Quick Paint pieces go to live auction at Granary Green. You don't need an invitation — just show up.
Sep 19 – Oct 2
Free · PublicUnsold works remain available for purchase online through October 2. Original, one-of-a-kind paintings of the Omaha metro — created on-site during the festival — available from wherever you are.
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