GET
Fit
Weardale Plein-Air
Festival
Date
29th - 31st May 2026
Time
09:00
Painting the Spirit of Weardale.
Join us in the heart of the North Pennines for a brand-new celebration of plein air painting. The Weardale Plein Air Festival brings together artists of all levels for three inspiring days of creativity, connection and community, surrounded by the dramatic landscapes and charming villages of this beautiful valley.
St John's Chapel, Weardale
Set within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Weardale offers sweeping moorlands, winding rivers and hidden corners of charm – the perfect inspiration for plein air painters.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just discovering the joy of painting outdoors, this festival is for you. Come and immerse yourself in creativity, friendship, and the breathtaking scenery of Weardale.
What To Expect
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Paint Outs – Reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and capture the beauty of Weardale in the open air.
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Workshops & Demonstrations – Learn new techniques from experienced artists and watch masters at work.
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The Plein Air Competition – Take part in an exciting contest with generous prizes up for grabs.
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Selling Exhibition – Share your work with festival visitors and collectors in our dedicated exhibition space.
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Artist Socials – Relax and unwind with a programme of friendly evening gatherings, including a life drawing session paired with cheese & wine.
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Special Experiences – Paint in a pretty cottage garden, complete with a posh cream tea lunch!
How It All Works
STEP 1
Registering to Take Part
All participating artists must register online in advance and pay the applicable registration fee.
This is a not-for-profit event run by a small team of volunteers. Your fee is kept to a minimum to help cover essential costs such as venues, equipment, and materials.
On arrival, you’ll receive:
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A welcome pack with useful festival information
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A personalised lanyard, which should be worn during Paint Outs, workshops, and the Plein Air competition
Basic registration includes:
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All artist-led Paint Outs
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Entry into the Plein Air competition
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Participation in the Public Exhibition
2011-2014
Degree
University Name
Briefly describe your degree and any other highlights about your studies you want to share. Be sure to include relevant skills you gained, accomplishments you achieved or milestones you reached during your education.
2007-2010
Degree
University Name
Briefly describe your degree and any other highlights about your studies you want to share. Be sure to include relevant skills you gained, accomplishments you achieved or milestones you reached during your education.
ITINERARY
DAY ONE
Friday 29th May
10:00am – 4:00pm: Artist-Led Paint Out
After registration, we’ll kick off the weekend with an inspiring paint out at one of our favourite spots along the River Wear. This charming riverside location has it all: little waterfalls, wooden footbridges, lush flora, and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of a rare bird! A comfort hub will be available, stocked with essentials to keep your day running smoothly.
6:00pm – 8:00pm: Evening Options
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Masterclass with a Professional Artist – Join one of our expert artists for an exclusive masterclass, perfect for picking up new techniques and gaining inspiration.
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Pub, Pizza & Sketch Evening – Prefer something more relaxed? Enjoy a homemade wood-fired pizza, mingle with fellow artists, and sketch at your leisure. Sketchbook optional!
DAY TWO
Saturday 30th May
The Big Brush Off Plein Air Competition
10:00am – 11:00am: Registration
Pick up your competition number and have your painting surfaces stamped (up to four surfaces per artist).
11:00am: Pep Talk & Rules Briefing
A quick pep talk to explain the rules and wish you good luck before you head out to paint.
11:15am – 3:00pm: Painting Time
Choose your perfect location from our carefully selected suggestions and immerse yourself in your artwork.
3:00pm – 3:30pm: Return & Presentation
Bring your completed pieces back to the Town Hall for display. Our judges will take this time to review your work while you enjoy some refreshments.
4:00pm: Winners Announced & Prize Giving
The Town Hall will open to the public, and we’ll reveal the winners of each category.
4:00pm – 6:00pm: Public Exhibition
View all the incredible artworks created during the competition.
6:00pm – 8:00pm: Life Drawing with Cheese & Wine
End the day with a relaxed life drawing session, paired with delicious cheese and wine.
DAY THREE
Sunday 31st May
10:00am – 4:00pm: Exhibition of Works
Up to four pieces per artist will be on display for the public to enjoy.
Special Experiences (Sign-Up Required):
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Cottage Garden Paint Out & Cream Tea – Paint in a beautiful cottage garden and enjoy a posh cream tea lunch.
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Historical Sketch Walk – Learn about Weardale’s rich history from a local historian while sketching famous historical features on a short guided walk.
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Burnhope Reservoir Paint Out – Explore woodland trails, picnic spots, and local wildlife while painting this scenic location.
Additional Artist-Led Workshops
Two more professional artist-led workshops will also be available, offering inspiration and guidance to round off an unforgettable weekend.