The INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF GLASS will take place in St Helens over the August Bank Holiday – from 27th to 31st August 2026
The International Festival of Glass will take place in St Helens over the August Bank Holiday – from 27th to 31st August 2026 – marking the first time the festival has been held in the North West of England.
The International Festival of Glass was launched in 2004 to create an internationally renowned, vibrant festival celebrating glassmaking with an atmosphere of inspiration, social inclusion, and lively cultural exchange. From 2026, the festival is being led by the Glass Art Society.
The theme of the 2026 Festival is ‘Local Innovation | Global Inspiration’, encapsulating the Glass Art Society’s mission to showcase how UK-based and international glass artists are paving the way for a glassy future, while highlighting the significance of glass development within St Helens, both historical and contemporary.
Hosted at The World of Glass, the five-day event features masterclasses, artist demonstrations, the British Glass Biennale, and community projects. Alongside exhibitions, there will be talks, family-friendly activities, special events, and opportunities to purchase unique glass artworks. In addition, specialist masterclasses will be delivered in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University.
With over 500 artists and glass enthusiasts involved, the festival offers a very inspiring celebration of glass for everyone.
Dates: Thursday 27th August to Monday 31st August, 2026.
Location: The World of Glass, Chalon Way East, St Helens, WA10 1BX.
Exhibitions: These run from 28th August to 1st November, 2026, and feature the British Glass Biennale, the International Bead and Jewellery Biennale, and the International GAS Member Exhibition. For further details see here.