Experience the Magic: The 32nd Annual Carmel Art Festival – May 16–18, 2025
This May, the charming coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea transforms into a vibrant canvas as it hosts the 32nd Annual Carmel Art Festival. From May 16 to 18, 2025, Devendorf Park and the surrounding streets will come alive with the colors and creativity of plein air artists from around the world.
A Celebration of Plein Air Painting
Plein air painting, the art of painting outdoors, is at the heart of the Carmel Art Festival. Sixty juried artists will arrive early to capture the breathtaking landscapes of the Monterey Peninsula, from the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the serene beauty of Carmel Valley. Their freshly painted works will be displayed, judged, and available for purchase throughout the weekend.
Festival Schedule Highlights
Friday, May 16
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Artists submit their completed paintings for judging.
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Live music performances in Devendorf Park.
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Judging of artworks, including the People's Choice Award.
4:00 PM: "Buy Now" art sale opens.
5:30 PM: Awards presentation and artist meet-and-greet.
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM: VIP Gala Party featuring local wines, gourmet food, and live entertainment by Carlos Reyes. (Ticketed event; purchasers of artwork receive complimentary tickets.)
Saturday, May 17
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Quick Draw competition on Mission Street, where artists create a painting in just two hours.
11:00 AM – 2:30 PM: Live art auction of Quick Draw pieces.
12:00 PM: Announcement of competition winners.
All Day: Kids' art activities, sculpture exhibits, and live music in Devendorf Park.
Sunday, May 18
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Final day to view and purchase artworks.
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Live music performances.
3:00 PM: Festival concludes.
More Than Just Paintings
The festival also features live sculpture demonstrations, providing insight into the creative process of sculptors. Families can enjoy interactive art activities designed for children, making it a perfect outing for all ages.
A Scenic Backdrop
Carmel-by-the-Sea's picturesque setting offers the perfect backdrop for this artistic celebration. With its quaint streets, stunning coastline, and artistic heritage, it's no wonder that artists and visitors alike are drawn to this coastal gem.
Admission and Additional Information
The Carmel Art Festival is a free public event, welcoming art enthusiasts, collectors, and families to immerse themselves in the world of plein air painting. For more details, including information on participating artists and event updates, visit the official Carmel Art Festival website.
Participating Artists
The Carmel Art Festival proudly showcases a diverse group of talented plein air artists. While the official list of 2025 participants has not been released yet, the festival traditionally features both local and international artists renowned for their landscape paintings. These artists capture the essence of the Monterey Peninsula's natural beauty, offering attendees a chance to witness a variety of styles and techniques.
Awards and Recognition
The festival includes several prestigious awards to honor outstanding artworks:
Best of Show: Awarded to the most exceptional painting as judged by a panel of experts.
People's Choice Award: Determined by festival attendees, this award reflects the public's favorite piece.
Artists' Choice Award: Voted on by participating artists, recognizing excellence among peers.
These accolades not only celebrate artistic talent but also enhance the festival's reputation in the art community.
Art Sales and Collector Opportunities
Art enthusiasts and collectors have the opportunity to purchase original plein air paintings throughout the festival. The "Buy Now" sale begins on Friday afternoon, allowing attendees to acquire artworks before the general public. Additionally, the Quick Draw auction on Saturday offers a dynamic setting to bid on freshly created pieces, adding excitement to the collecting experience.
VIP Gala Party
The VIP Gala Party on Friday evening is a highlight of the festival, featuring:
Gourmet Cuisine: A selection of fine foods prepared by local chefs.
Local Wines: Tastings from renowned wineries in the Carmel and Monterey regions.
Live Entertainment: Performances by acclaimed musicians, creating a festive atmosphere.
This exclusive event provides an intimate setting for guests to mingle with artists and fellow art lovers.
Parking and Transportation
Carmel-by-the-Sea offers several public parking areas within walking distance of Devendorf Park. During the festival, additional signage and volunteers assist with directing traffic and parking. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, as parking can fill up quickly during peak hours.
Pet-Friendly Environment
The Carmel Art Festival welcomes well-behaved, leashed pets, allowing attendees to enjoy the event with their furry companions. Water stations and pet waste bags are available throughout the festival grounds to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience the fusion of art and nature in one of California's most beautiful settings. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply looking for a delightful weekend activity, the Carmel Art Festival promises inspiration and enjoyment for all.
Photo by Jennie Razumnaya on Unsplash
