Glen Echo Glassmaking Demo (Art Glass Consortium) — Glen Echo, Maryland

Discover the Glen Echo Glassmaking Demo in Maryland

Located in the historic Glen Echo Park, the Glen Echo Glassmaking Demo offers visitors a live look into the art and science of glassmaking. Operated by the Art Glass Consortium, this public demonstration experience allows guests to watch skilled glass artists transform molten glass into finished pieces using traditional hot-glass techniques.

Why it’s special:
This is not a factory tour—it’s a live artistic process unfolding in real time. Visitors stand just feet away from glowing furnaces and working artists, experiencing the heat, motion, and teamwork required to shape glass by hand in a historic park setting.

History/Story of Glen Echo Glassworks

Glen Echo Glassworks was established as part of Glen Echo Park’s transformation into a vibrant arts and cultural center. Operated by the Art Glass Consortium, the studio continues a tradition of craftsmanship, education, and public engagement. Today, it serves as both a working glass studio and a teaching space, connecting contemporary glass art with the park’s historic roots.

What You’ll See & Do at the Glen Echo Glassmaking Demo

• Watch live glassblowing demonstrations by professional artists

• Learn how molten glass is gathered, shaped, and cooled

• Observe teamwork between glassblowers, assistants, and instructors

• Hear explanations of tools, furnaces, and safety techniques

• View finished glass pieces created during the demonstration

Hands-On Elements: Observation-focused; occasional Q&A with artists
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed; flash restricted near hot glass
Souvenirs & Extras: Gallery sales of handmade glass art during select events

Pricing of the Glen Echo Glassmaking Demo

Admission to the glassmaking demonstrations is free of charge.
Special workshops and classes are offered separately for a fee.

Visiting information

Duration: 20–40 minutes per demonstration
Format: Live glassmaking demonstration
Schedule & Seasonality: Demonstrations offered seasonally
Audience: Families, art enthusiasts, students, curious visitors
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible viewing areas
Safety & Restrictions: Barriers in place; children must be supervised
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group visits welcome during public demo hours
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes; indoor/outdoor viewing depending on weather
Facilities: Restrooms, parking, nearby cafés within Glen Echo Park
Closures & Downtime: No demos during off-season or severe weather
Working hours: Saturday–Sunday 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (seasonal demonstrations)

Nearby

• Glen Echo Park historic attractions

• Clara Barton National Historic Site

• C&O Canal Towpath

FAQs About Visiting Glen Echo Glassmaking Demo

Is this a factory tour?
No. This is a live glass art demonstration in a working studio, not an industrial factory.

Can visitors try glassblowing themselves?
Hands-on experiences are available through paid classes, but not during public demos.

Are demonstrations suitable for children?
Yes. Demos are family-friendly, though close supervision is required due to heat.

Do demonstrations run every weekend?
They are seasonal and weather-dependent; availability may vary.

Can I buy glass made on-site?
Yes. Handmade glass pieces are often available for purchase during events or open studio days.