International Festival of Glass
Local Innovation | Global Inspiration
27–31 August 2026
St Helens, North West, England
Welcome to IFoG 2026!
The International Festival of Glass returns in 2026 — and for the first time in its history, it comes to the North West of England. Taking place from 27–31 August, IFoG will bring thousands of people to St Helens, and will feature a mix of masterclasses, demonstrations, lectures, exhibitions, and other activities.
IFoG 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 proudly led by the Glass Art Society (GAS).
The theme of the 2026 Festival is ‘Local Innovation | Global Inspiration’ — encapsulating GAS’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.
Key Dates & Public Opening Hours
Pre-Festival Masterclasses – Before 27 August (at The World of Glass and Manchester Metropolitan University)
Full Festival Programme – Thursday 27 – Monday 31 August 2026
Exhibitions – 28 August – 1 November 2026
The full programme of activities will be released in July 2026.
Masterclasses
For those artists wanting to learn new skills, intensive masterclasses will take place in the run-up to the festival, delivered in partnership with The World of Glass and Manchester Metropolitan University. Spaces are limited, so early booking is strongly recommended.
From fusing to flame, pâte de verre to glassblowing, students will leave having developed new styles, with a great opportunity to learn and network with other glass artists in a small, intimate group. Class numbers are kept small to allow for group, independent, and one-to-one learning.
Exhibitions
Three major juried exhibitions will be on display at The World of Glass from 27 August – 1 November, 2026.
In addition, the public will have the opportunity to see selected works from organisations such as the Contemporary Glass Society and others during the Festival weekend.
British Glass Biennale
The British Glass Biennale showcases the best of British glass art happening in the UK today, and is the largest-selling show of contemporary glass art.
International Bead + Jewellery Biennale
2026 marks the first year that this exhibition will include jewellery. It features creations that are predominantly made of glass and welcomes all glassmaking techniques.
International GAS Member Exhibition
Open to all Members and Student Members of GAS, this exhibition provides artists with the opportunity to show their work within the context of British glass and showcase their craft on an international stage. A selection of works will subsequently travel to London Glassblowing.
The 2026 International Festival of Glass is organised by the Glass Art Society and hosted in partnership with The World of Glass, St Helens.
The International Festival of Glass will be administered by Glass Art Society UK Limited (company number 15275270), registered offices at Ruskin Glass Centre, Wollaston Road, Amblecote, Stourbridge, United Kingdom, DY8 4HF, +44 7933 037021.