Wekiva Paint Out returns!

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.

Sponsors for the event are Nütrl, VJ Publications, Christner's Prime Steak & Lobster, Certified Financial Group, Wells Fargo Advisors, Without a Paddle Café, Wekiva Island, Gallery CERO, Seminole State Foundation and Florida Park Service.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses, and individuals can become patrons to receive art credits and tickets to private events.

Wekiva Island has been hosting the Wekiva Paint Out since 2009. The event supports the Seminole County business’ mission of art, education and sustainability.

About Wekiva Island

Located on the beautiful Wekiva River, Wekiva Island offers visitors the chance to experience the real Florida. The natural attraction features more than 2,000 square feet of entertainment along the riverfront, including activities from canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding to volleyball and cornhole. Wekiva Island hosts regular monthly events. The Tooting Otter bar offers a selection of craft beer and wine, and Without a Paddle Café serves up a full menu, including for special events. Guests can also purchase gifts or souvenirs at the General Store. In addition, Wekiva Island features a unique art gallery that showcases natural works from around the world, as well as offers classes, events and more. Corporate meeting space, event venues and private cabana rentals are available at Wekiva Island. Sustainability and a passion for the environment is at the heart of the organization’s mission. Wekiva Island is located at 1014 Miami Springs Drive in Longwood, Florida. For more information, visit wekivaisland.com or call 407-862-1500.