2026 marks the EIGHTH time GAS has brought our conference to Corning, New York, which makes it the most frequent host in conference history! In honor of our long affiliation with Corning, here are 8 reasons why you can’t miss our Corning 2026 conference from June 3–6, 2026:
1. The whole town is glass obsessed!
Known as the Crystal City, Corning has over 150 years of glassmaking history. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Corning Museum of Glass and the 30th anniversary of The Studio as well. The entire city is hosting events, volunteering, and otherwise welcoming hundreds of glass enthusiasts for our conference, culminating in a city-wide celebration of glass and light on Friday, June 5.
2. GAS + CMoG + SGAA + ISGB = magic
Four powerhouse glass nonprofits are collaborating to make this conference the most comprehensive and community-focused event possible. A twisty cup competition, beadmaking, glass cutting, and the finale of CMoG’s Flame Collab will all take place on Thursday, June 4, which provides us with a unique opportunity to showcase as many facets of our community as possible in just one evening.
3. It's all about the presenters
From indigenous bead making to using a tilt furnace to pour molds, this conference will feature over 100+ experts in demonstrations, lectures, and more.
4. THE one and only B Team reunites!
The legendary glass performance group, The B Team, will reunite for our Conference Kick Off demonstration on Wednesday, June 3. This is an exciting opportunity for conference attendees of all ages to take in the power of glass in action!
5. It’s runway time: The Glass Fashion Show
Laura Donefer’s extraordinary Glass Fashion Show returns to the GAS conference! Dozens of artists have spent a year crafting the perfect glassy costumes to strut down the runway. The Glass Fashion Show is always a showstopper!
6. Only in Corning
Take advantage of unique experiences only available in Corning! Where else in the world can you view 10,000+ pieces of glass art, watch maestros at work, AND research any glass question you could possibly have?
7. Take your career to the next level!
With opportunities to exhibit your work, sell your jewelry, show your glassy films on the silver screen, and have your portfolio reviewed by experts, the conference is THE place to take your glass career to the next level. Plus, you never know who you’ll meet who can collaborate with you, collect your work, or offer you the next opportunity you need.
8. Our annual family reunion
Watch the best in our community at work, learn new techniques, connect with your favorite manufacturers, and more at Corning 2026, and perhaps most importantly of all, add a spark to old friendships and forge new ones. The conference is the best opportunity to catch up with all your glassy friends from around the world and to meet new people!