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Plein Air Down Under Festival in Mandurah

Nadine Heinen
April 7, 2025
Events & FestivalsSeasonal Highlights
A man wearing a hat and a black hoodie paints a waterside scene on an easel. He stands on a wooden boardwalk with a lake and buildings in the background. His palette is colorful, and hes focused on his artwork.

Experience WA’s Premier Outdoor Painting Festival: Plein Air Down Under 2025

Looking for creative things to do in Mandurah this spring? Mark your calendar for the Plein Air Down Under Outdoor Painting Festival, returning over the September long weekend—27 to 29 September 2025.

This much-loved event is Western Australia’s largest outdoor painting festival, attracting artists and art lovers from across the country and overseas. Set in the heart of Mandurah’s foreshore, cultural precinct, and the historic town of Pinjarra, it’s a weekend filled with live art, workshops, exhibitions, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush or just soaking up the atmosphere, this is one of the top Mandurah events of the year.

Day 1 – Saturday 27 Sept | Mandurah

Presented by Ray White Mandurah

Kick things off at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre (ManPAC) with a brand-new Saturday format.

  • Watch artists painting live around Mandurah’s vibrant CBD
  • Enjoy free family activities in the Young Painters Zone, including watercolour workshops for kids and adults
  • Catch inspiring demonstrations by internationally renowned artists like Aaron Schuerr (USA), Michele Usibelli (USA), and Leon Holmes (AUS)
  • Discover the Spirit of the Landscape exhibition and join in on creative workshops

Wind down with the evening artist panel discussion and Ray White Mandurah door prize draw.

 

Day 2 – Sunday 28 Sept | Pinjarra

Explore the picturesque Edenvale Heritage Precinct as artists paint along the Pinjarra Heritage Trail.

  • Watch live painting demos throughout the day
  • Get hands-on with free art activities and enjoy local flavours at the Peel Growers Market
  • Visit the Nu.Arts Collective gallery
  • Relax to live music from Best Friends Duo

Don’t miss free demos by feature artists in pastel, gouache, and oil.

 

Day 3 – Monday 29 Sept | Mandurah

It’s the festival finale at Mandjar Square with the high-energy Quick Draw Painting Competition.

  • Two-hour live art challenge (8.30am rego, 10am start)
  • Judging, awards, and pop-up exhibition from 12.15pm

Inside Mandurah Performing Arts Centre: Lunch for artists, major awards presentation, and art sales.

 

 

Get involved

Whether you’re an artist or simply love being surrounded by creativity, there are plenty of ways to experience Plein Air Down Under. Most festival activities are free to watch or join in, including live painting, art demonstrations, and family-friendly workshops.

If you’d like to paint, you can register for the Quick Draw Painting Competition on Monday or take part in the full weekend with a Festival Access All Areas Pass. This pass gives you access to artist talks, workshops, exhibition opportunities, and more.

Early bird tickets are available until 31 July—now’s the time to secure your spot.

A person in a hat paints on an easel by a riverbank, with a colourful sailboat passing on the water. Houses are visible in the background, and trees frame the scene. The ground is covered with grass and scattered leaves.

Artwork All Around Town

Even when you’re not at the festival, Mandurah is bursting with artistic inspiration. Take a walk along the Mandurah Instagram Trail and you’ll find some of the most creative and quirky outdoor artworks. Keep an eye out for the iconic 3D pelican by artist Jenny McCracken – it’s just one of the many incredible pieces you can discover on your stroll.

And of course, Mandurah’s very own Giants of Mandurah by Thomas Dambo are a must-see! These awe-inspiring wooden sculptures are tucked away in nature and make for the perfect adventure. The weather is mild, so it’s a great time to explore the Giants and get lost in the beauty of nature.

Start your journey at the Mandurah Visitor Centre, where you can choose which Giants to visit. While you’re there, don’t miss the ‘Welcome to Country’ mural by artists Peta & Corey Ugle and the amazing 3D Augmented Reality experience, which tells the story of Mandurah’s waterways through art.

A woman playfully holds a fish in front of a 3D wall mural depicting a pelican with its beak open, appearing to reach for the fish. The mural is framed by a circular border with the words Visit Mandurah. The background is a vibrant blue wall.

Take fun snaps along the Mandurah Instagram Trail

See Mandurah on Two Wheels or by Boat

If you’re feeling adventurous, leave the car behind and explore the town on an e-bike or e-scooter. For a more relaxed experience, hop on a ‘Ride the Giants’ e-bike tour or take a cruise with Mandurah Cruises to get a stunning view of the Giant ‘Seba’s Song’ from the water.

For a change of pace, dive into Mandurah’s vibrant arts scene by visiting local galleries like the Black Stump Art Gallery – you’re sure to find something that speaks to you.

A large wooden sculpture resembling a human figure sits on rocks, facing a motorboat on a calm blue sea. The sculpture appears to be observing the boat, which is filled with people enjoying the ride under a clear sky.

Giant & Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise

Beyond the Festival: Explore Mandurah’s Hidden Gems

If you’re craving a break from the art scene, there’s no shortage of activities in Mandurah. Explore the beautiful waterways and estuaries on a dolphin-watching tour, or for something extra fun, the Pirate Ship Mandurah is a must for families and kids!

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy some of Mandurah’s best dining experiences. Start your day with breakfast at Wood and Stone Café, then head to Boundary Island Brewery for a relaxing lunch with a cold craft beer. For dinner, don’t miss the welcoming atmosphere at Flics Kitchen.

Mandurah has plenty of local gems like Brewvino, The Pen, and Redmanna, all offering delicious meals and drinks. Just make sure to book ahead so you don’t miss out!

 

Where to Stay in Mandurah

Want to stay close to all the festival action? The Sebel Mandurah and Dolphin Quay Apartments are just steps away from the best attractions and dining spots. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, check out Seashells Mandurah or C Mandurah Resort & Serviced Apartments for a relaxing stay by the water.

And don’t worry if you’re bringing your furry friend along – there are plenty of pet-friendly accommodation options and experiences to enjoy in Mandurah too.

Aerial view of a coastal resort featuring a white building with light blue accents. A turquoise swimming pool is surrounded by palm trees and lounge chairs. The expansive beach and ocean extend along the shoreline under a clear blue sky.

Seashells Mandurah

Plan Your Visit Today

The Plein Air Down Under Outdoor Painting Festival is just the beginning of Mandurah’s vibrant arts scene. Check out our guide to Mandurah and start planning your visit now!