Paint the Town in Marble Falls
When thirty-six talented artists from across the country converge on Marble Falls during wildflower season for a plein-air art competition, the results are breathtaking. During Paint the Town, artists fan out across the area with their easels and paint “in open air.” The Highland Lakes Creative Arts event has become so popular that it has grown into a festival with activities for everyone
In addition to the competition, the festival includes a day of instruction for school-age art students, free public art demonstrations, a pop-up gallery of works created by competing artists, a quick-draw event open to the public, hands-on family art time, and a VIP reception at which the plein-air winners are announced.
Here is a rundown of events included in the 2025 festival:
Paint the Town Art Competition
April 6-12
Marble Falls area
Select artists capture the essence of Marble Falls and the Highland Lakes area on canvas throughout the week. They can be spotted in town and around the countryside hard at work. It is fun to watch, and onlookers are welcome.
Student Art Day
Wednesday, April 9, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Lakeside Park, 306 Buena Vista Drive
Artists instruct small groups of pre-registered school-age students in the technique of plein-air painting.
Art of Texas Hill Country Pop-up Gallery
Thursday-Saturday, April 10-12, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Lakeside Pavilion, 305 Buena Vista Drive
Art from the Paint the Town competition is on display and available for purchase. Admission is free.
The Artist’s Lounge Private Viewing Night
Friday, April 11, 5 p.m.
Lakeside Pavilion
A VIP reception with appetizers, drinks, and live music where the winning paintings are announced. Art is available for purchase. Silent auction.
Quick-Draw Competition
Saturday, April 12, 9-11 a.m.
Lakeside Pavilion
A 90-minute outdoor painting competition open to the public. Participation in the event is free for Paint the Town artists and student artists. It is $15 for the general public.
Family Art Day
Saturday, April 12, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Lakeside Pavilion
Paint the Town culminates with Family Art Day. Families of all shapes and sizes are invited to participate in free art activities guided by Highland Arts Guild artists.
Learn more about this annual celebration of art in Marble Falls by visiting the Highland Lakes Creative Arts’ event page.
