Wekiva Paint Out

How can paint help the Wekiva River?

The Wekiva Paint Out will show those in Central Florida how from Feb. 26 to March 2, 2024. The annual event brings world-class artists to Wekiva Island and Wekiwa Springs State Park for a week of work to capture the beautiful surroundings, all to benefit local organizations that help protect the river for future generations.

The event is in its 18^th year. For the week, visitors can stop by the area to watch artists work en plein air, from the boardwalk at Wekiva Island to the trails at Wekiwa Springs and even on the river in canoes. They can see completed works in the gallery at Wekiva Island or buy them straight from the easel.

“Paint Out events are always fun, but this one is special to Central Florida and our artists,” said Mary Weinaug, the event’s organizer and Executive Director of Keep Seminole Beautiful. “The Wekiva River is so unique to us here, and the artists are inspired by it as their muse. Seeing it through their eyes really shows why it’s important to keep the river vibrant.”

In addition to watching the work and touring the gallery, visitors can attend several special events throughout the week.

• Live Auction: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28. Guests can bid, and maybe score a steal, in a fast-paced, traditional art auction. Register here.
• Evening Nocturne Painting and Pasta Bar:5 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 1. Watch the artists paint around Wekiva Island at night and enjoy a special meal for $14.95.
• Quick Draw competition: Noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 2. Amateurs can paint alongside the pros, and maybe take home a prize. Registration is $30. Register here.
• The All-Inclusive Gala: 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 2. Celebrate the week of art with a special meal, drinks, live music and more. $50/person and $90/couple. Buy tickets here.

Proceeds from the event benefit Keep Seminole Beautiful and the Wekiva Wilderness Trust.