2026 Clay & Glass Festival: Live Art Demos + Pottery Throwdown (Palo Alto)

Association of Clay and Glass Artists of California (ACGA)

130+ Artists, Live Demos, and One-of-a-Kind Works at the Palo Alto Art Center
The vibrant world of ceramics and glass returns to the Bay Area this summer as the ACGA Clay & Glass Festival makes its much-anticipated return to the Palo Alto Art Center on Saturday and Sunday, July 11–12, 2026. Hosted by the Association of Clay and Glass Artists of California (ACGA) in collaboration with the Palo Alto Art Center, this free, two-day event is a must-visit for everyone from art lovers to new collectors.
Over 130 juried artists from across California will exhibit clay and glass works, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire distinctive, one-of-a-kind pieces. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to meet the artists, hear the inspiration behind their work, and purchase directly from them.
“We’re excited to bring the Clay & Glass Festival back to Palo Alto this July,” said Mari Emori, ACGA Board President. “It’s more than just an art show. It’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the enduring beauty of handmade clay and glass art. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or discovering us for the first time, there’s something here for everyone.”
Festival-goers can expect much more than just stunning art. A thrilling live pottery Throwdown competition at 3:15 PM both days, with six skilled potters, two fast-paced challenges, live commentary and prizes
The event also features live art demonstrations:
Saturday, July 11 11:00 AM – Alka Bhargava, Ikebana
12:00 PM – Margie Sarrao, handbuilding
1:00 PM – Jim Shea, slab building with texture
2:00 PM – Chris Johnson, talk on glass blowing
Sunday, July 12
11:00 AM – Alka Bhargava, Ikebana
12:00 PM – Jacob Miller, closed form to sculpture
1:00 PM – Hailey Tessler, throwing off the hump
2:00 PM – Yukiko Watanabe, teapots
Admission is free, and valet parking will be available at the Palo Alto Art Center. The festival is open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on both days, rain or shine. Food trucks and beverage vendors offering delicious local fare will also be on hand.
Mark your calendars and bring your friends and family. This beloved Bay Area tradition is the perfect way to spend a summer weekend surrounded by art.
For more information, including a full list of participating artists and event highlights, visit https://acga.net/acga-clay-glass-festival-2026.
Location
Palo Alto Art Center 1313 Newell Road Palo Alto, CA 94303
About ACGA
The Association of Clay and Glass Artists of California (ACGA) is committed to promoting excellence in design and craftsmanship in the clay and glass arts. Founded in 1945 as the Association of San Francisco Potters, ACGA now includes over 400 members (artists, students, patrons, galleries, and sponsors) united in their passion for handmade art. Learn more at https://acga.net/acga-clay-glass-festival-2026