Abacoa & Alton Neighbors - February 2026

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | A B A C O A & A LT O N N E I G H B O R S 5 – Submitted by Laura Zelle | Photos provided by Lighthouse ArtCenter – W atch the creative process unfold as 30 award-winning artists from around the world set up their easels across Palm Beach and Martin Counties. LIVE PAINTING AND DAILY ART SALES Artists will be painting “en plein air,” a French term meaning “in the open air,” while competing for over $15,000 in cash and prizes. Their freshly painted works will be available for purchase daily at Lighthouse ArtCenter, located at 373 Tequesta Drive, Tequesta, FL 33469. “This is a festival for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply love where we live,” said Jeni Licata Shaw, executive director of Lighthouse ArtCenter. “It’s an opportunity to watch master artists create, connect with them personally, and take home an original piece of art.” FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: Paint-Out Competition (March 1, 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.): Kicking off the festival, professional and amateur artists gather at the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse to paint in a fast-paced, two-hour timed event. The public is invited to attend and will receive a discounted admission of $10 to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse when they mention the Plein Air Festival. Free Live Painting Demonstrations (March 2 - 5, 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.): Watch award-winning artists transform blank canvases into vibrant paintings at Riverbend Park, Dubois Park, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, and Stuart Beach. For the full schedule, visit lighthousearts.org/pleinair-2026. Artists’ Reception and Small Works Sale (March 4, 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.): Meet the artists, enjoy light bites, and browse the LAC gallery to purchase artwork. Admission is free. Collectors' Party & Sale (Friday, March 6, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.): This special evening at Lighthouse ArtCenter offers attendees the opportunity to purchase freshly painted artworks. Guests will enjoy hors d'oeuvres and refreshments. Admission is free. Battle of the Brushes (Saturday, March 7, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.): This lively finale is the last day to purchase festival paintings and features a live relay-style painting competition at Lighthouse ArtCenter. Admission is free. Festival proceeds support LAC’s exhibitions, classes, and outreach programs for underserved youth, veterans, and individuals with special needs. 13thAnnual PleinAir Festival RETURNS MARCH 1–7, 2026 LIGHTHOUSE ARTCENTER’S COMMUNITY For the full schedule of events, visit https://lighthousearts.org/pleinair-2026/.