2026 Plein Air at the Fair

🎨 Welcome to the 177th Walworth County Fair Plein Air at the Fair! 🖌️

New This Year!

Extended Artwork Submission Deadline

Artists may now paint until 12:00 PM (Noon) on Friday, September 4, 2026.

There are two events in this competition: the Main Event and the Postcard Paint. All artworks must embody the Plein Air spirit by capturing the light, mood, and atmosphere of the moment.

We’re thrilled to invite artists and fairgoers alike to experience the unique blend of creativity, community, and countryside charm at this year's Plein Air at the Fair competition. Set against the vibrant backdrop of one of Wisconsin’s oldest and most beloved county fairs, this open-air painting event celebrates the beauty of rural life, the joy of artistic expression, and the rich tradition that defines Walworth County.

Artists of all levels are encouraged to grab their brushes and capture the magic of the fair in real time — from the hustle of the livestock barns to the sparkle of carnival lights, and everything in between. Join us for the third annual Plein Air at the Fair!

Let the sights, sounds, and spirit of the fair inspire your canvas. Welcome, and happy painting!

Download the rules and registration form today. All registrations must be postmarked by Thursday August 13, 2026. Registration fees are not refundable or transferable. Registration fees received after the maximum number of artists has been reached will be returned.

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‍Main Event Awards

Two paintings allowed.

Artists may receive only one award from this section:

Grand Champion...........$1,000

Reserve Champion........$600

Award of Merit...............$400

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Postcard Event

One painting allowed.

Grand Champion…...…$250

Reserve Champion...…$150

Award of Merit...……....$100

Special Awards

These awards may be given in either the Main Event or Postcard paint . Artists may receive multiple awards from this section:

Capture the Concessionaire………$200

Best Kids or Animals at the Fair…..$200

The Winning Moment………………$200

Best Dairy Animal…………………..$200

Best Capture of Fair Theme………$200

Patriotic Painting ………………..…$200 (2026 only)

Download Rules & Registration

2026 Plein Air at the Fair Rules & Registration

2026 Plein Air at the Fair Entry Form

First Name

Last Name

Email Address

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Website Link (optional)

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State

Postal Code

Phone Number

Plein Air at the Fair Rules
*

$40 per artist, up to two paintings may be submitted for the Main Event, one painting may be submitted for the Postcard painting. Make checks payable to Walworth County Fair, or call the fair office at 262-723-3228 to pay by phone. The registration fee must accompany this entry form.

Return Completed Form & Fee to:

Walworth County Fair Plein Air at the Fair

P.O. Box 286

411 E Court St

Elkhorn Wi 53121

Note: Registration fees are not refundable or transferable. Any registration fee received after the maximum numbers of artists are registered will be returned.

Postmark Deadline: Thursday, August 13, 2026

Fair Tickets: All registered artists will receive four (4) complimentary admission tickets and a special parking area permit for Thursday of the Fair.

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