A New Season for Paint Grand Traverse

Nov. 7, 2026

Paint Grand Traverse, Crooked Tree Arts Center’s popular plein air painting competition that draws artists from across the country, is making a shift from June to September for 2027. This isn’t the first time the festival has changed; when it was originally started in 2018, PGT was held in August for its first five years. Organizers say a “later-season schedule offers artists a fresh perspective on Northern Michigan’s landscapes and creates new opportunities for the festival to grow.” Save the date for Sept. 19–26, 2027. But most importantly, this means that applications to join the 2027 event are now open for painters near and far! Find more application information, eligibility details, and updates at crookedtree.org/events-and-exhibitions/events/paint-grand-traverse.

Painting by Hector Acuna during Paint Grand Traverse