Paint the Peonies!
Monday, May 18th 2026, 10 am - 3 pm
Rain Date: Tuesday, May 19th
St John's Peony Farm
18136 Glenville Rd Havre de Grace 21078
Experience Harford County’s best kept secret - This place is MAGICAL!
The gardens are laid out in two different fields and is a favorite location for artists and photographers. The peonies range in color from fragrant white to blush pinks, cotton candy pink to crimson reds. There are also goats (and baby goats), if you want to paint other aspects of life on the farm.
There is a $20 entrance fee, payable to the farm on the day of the paint-out. Parking is limited, so you must register in advance to participate. Carpooling is a great idea, and it’s fun to paint with friends.
If you are new to plein air painting, limit your kit. You need to comfortably carry all the supplies you need. Be sure to clean up after yourself (leave no trace). Also, visitors to the farm are likely to stop, observe, and ask questions. That's part of the plein air experience. Be gracious with your answers and enjoy the opportunity to share your love of pastels.
Here are some resources you may find useful:
MPS Checklist for Plein Air Painters
Karen Margulis’ Blog article: Packing for Plein Air with Pastels
Pastel Today article: 11 Tips for Pastel Painting En Plein Air by Lorenzo Chavez
Richard McKinley’s tips for pastel painting en plein air
