The World of Glass to host 2026 International Festival of Glass

The Glass Art Society (GAS) has announced that the first International Festival of Glass (IFoG) under its stewardship will be held at The World of Glass (TWoG) in St Helens, Merseyside, UK, from 27-31 August 2026.

IFoG is a biannual festival celebrating all things glass, with masterclasses and exhibitions, including the British Glass Biennial, among many other activities. In selecting a location for the next IFoG, GAS stated that it is important to move throughout the UK to partner with as many glass artists and organisations as possible and to make glass accessible in every corner of the UK.

“We are excited to partner with the World of Glass for the 2026 Festival,” stated GAS Executive Director Brandi P Clark. “As the original home of Pilkington Glass and an advocate for contemporary UK glass, TWoG is the perfect partner for a festival completely dedicated to the material we all love. Halfway between Liverpool and Manchester, the location will make the Festival accessible for tourists and glass enthusiasts alike.”

TWoG Executive Director Sarah Taylor added, “We are so pleased to be partnering with the Glass Art Society to bring the festival to the NW of England for the very first time. We see this as an exciting opportunity for the World of Glass to do what it does best; promote and engage with the public to help them better understand the art, history and science of glass, as well as promote St Helens’ integral place within the industry. GAS has significant experience bringing together the international community of glass artists and enthusiasts and we are looking forward to working with them over the next two years to deliver a fantastic festival.”

Image: The World of Glass will host the 2026 International Festival of Glass.