Plein Air Festival
7TH ANNUAL PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL
The Gulfport Merchants Chamber (GMC) is proud to present 7th Annual Gulfport Plein Air Festival April 13-18 2026, an immersive art experience showcasing artists as they capture the charm and vibrancy of Gulfport in real time.
Running from April 13-18, 2026, this interactive event invites the community to witness the artistic process firsthand, culminating at the Exhibition & Collector’s Sale on April 18th from 4-6pm at the Gulfport Welcome Center.
Artist deadline March 31st. Limited space available – register early.
Artists click here to learn more and register.
Contact [email protected] with any questions.
Local Lodging:
- Peninsula Bed & Cocktails – Use promo code ART to receive 20% off of your stay!
- Sea Breeze Manor Inn – 20% discount with the mention of Plein Air.
Call to Artists for the 7th Annual Gulfport Plein Air Festival
The Gulfport Merchants Chamber invites artists working in all mediums/substrates to join the Seventh Annual Gulfport Plein Air Festival April 13-18 2026.
Registration opens November 13th, 2025 to artists 18 and older. Registration fee is $40. Registration Deadline: March 31st, 2026Link to register: https://www.
Participating artists are requested to bring canvases and other surfaces they intend to use to the Gulfport Welcome Center (5317 Gulfport Blvd) for stamping at the Artist Meet & Greet on Monday April 13th 4-6pm. (stamping of canvases and other surfaces is also available on Tuesday)
Paint Gulfport’s scenic locations and submit your favorite painting on Friday April 17th at the Gulfport Merchant Chamber Welcome Center between 1-2 PM and 4-5pm.
Registration includes a plein air workshop on Saturday, April 18th 10am-12 pm with award-winning artist/instructor Jack Providenti. Jack originated the idea of this plein air event 7 years ago!
Join us for the festival finale Exhibition & Collector’s Sale on April 18th from 4-6pm with prizes and awards! Artists must be present. Exhibition awards will be decided by a panel of 3 award-winning artist judges.
$300 cash award for Best in Show and the following fun awards will each receive a Blick gift card worth $50.
1. Spirit of Gulfport – the piece that best embodies the fun and funky atmosphere of Gulfport
2. Gecko Award – best incorporation of a gecko in a painting.
3. Best Tree Award – best expression of a tree.
Thank You To Our 2026 Sponsors
The Helen P. Glimpse Charitable Foundation, Inc.
