Three-Day Celebration of Glass, Art, Music, and Community Presented by Chemung Canal Trust Company
Corning’s Gaffer District is proud to announce the return of GlassFest 2026, presented by Chemung Canal Trust Company, taking place Memorial Day weekend, May 22–24, throughout downtown Corning.
This signature annual festival celebrates Corning’s internationally recognized glassmaking heritage with a full weekend of live entertainment, interactive experiences, family activities, and more than 130 artists, makers, and vendors lining Market Street.
GlassFest officially begins Friday, May 22 at noon with the Glass Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on the Centerway Square Stage, launching a weekend dedicated to artistry, innovation, and community celebration.
Throughout the festival, visitors can experience live hot glass demonstrations presented hourly by the Corning Museum of Glass on the Centerway Stage, along with additional glass demonstrations throughout Market Street. Hands-on glass activities sponsored by ServU Credit Union will allow visitors of all ages to create their own glass artwork and contribute to a community glass mural.
GlassFest will also feature juried artist showcases and a vibrant artists and makers market featuring glass art, fine art, and handcrafted goods.
A Weekend of FREE Live Music
Rock the Park, sponsored by Simmons-Rockwell, is the music portion to the GlassFest celebration of music and glass. Corning’s Gaffer District is thrilled to host this year’s spotlight Rock the Park concerts, bringing nationally touring acts and regional favorites to Riverfront Centennial Park. Friday Night’s Kickoff performance by Fall Creek Brass Band. The Opening act is John King straight from Nashville and our headliner is Drake White detouring to Corning from his international tour opening for Reily Green. Saturday Night opening act: Uptown Groove followed by headliner Traci Bruccoleri with Are You Ready for It? A Taylor Experience. We will be ending Saturday night with a fireworks finale.
Live music performances will take place during the day all weekend on every block of Market Street. Check out our website, gafferdistrict.com, for a detailed list of performances.
GlassFest is More Than a Festival – it is an experience for visitors of all ages! Shop from the 130+ artisan vendors, participate in interactive glass experiences and demonstrations, watch street performers, cultural dances, and family-friendly programming, join our community fitness activities and walking tours.
Sunday we will have a Memorial Day Service in coordination with the American Legion honoring those who have served. Corning’s Mayor will recognize those who gave everything in service and the Corning Community Concert Band will be performing.
“GlassFest is a true reflection of what makes Corning special,” said Catherine Price, Executive Director of Corning’s Gaffer District. “It brings together our history, our creative energy, and our community in a way that welcomes visitors while celebrating the people and businesses that make downtown thrive.”
GlassFest is free to attend and takes place throughout downtown Corning, centered on Market Street and Riverfront Centennial Park. For schedules, event details, and updates, visit gafferdistrict.com.
