Gallery of Excellence Winners
Congratulations to all the winners of the Gallery of Excellence 2025 Annual Art Competition sponsored by Glass Patterns Quarterly, Glass Art, and The Flow magazines. View the winners of the 2025 Gallery of Excellence below. You can also view all the talented winners from some of the previous years of GCBE.
COPYRIGHT
All photographs, text and html coding appearing in the Glass Craft & Bead website are the exclusive intellectual property of either the Las Vegas Management family or the glass artists and are protected under United States and international copyright laws.
Please contact support@glasscraftexpo.com if you wish to obtain permission to use information posted
PRIVACY POLICY
Glass Craft & Bead Expo, managed by Las Vegas Management, is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal information when you interact with our website.
1. Information We Collect:
We may collect personal information such as your name, email address, and payment details when you register or make a purchase. We also collect non-personal data through cookies and analytics tools to improve your experience.
2. Use of Information:
Your information is used to process transactions, send event updates, and provide customer support. We may also send promotional content related to the expo or our partners, which you can opt out of at any time.
3. Google Analytics and Tracking Technologies:
We use Google Analytics to help us understand how visitors interact with our website. This includes features such as Demographics and Interest Reporting, which provide insights into user behavior and preferences. Google Analytics uses cookies and other identifiers to collect data such as your IP address, browser type, and pages visited.
You can control the information collected by Google Analytics by adjusting your browser settings or by installing the https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout/.
For more information on how Google collects and processes data, please visit https://policies.google.com/technologies/partner-sites.
4. Information Sharing:
We do not sell, rent, or lease your personal information to third parties. We may share data with trusted partners who assist in operating our website or servicing you, under strict confidentiality agreements.
5. Data Security:
We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your information from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure.
6. Your Choices:
You may request access to, correction of, or deletion of your personal data by contacting us at
support@glasscraftexpo.com.
7. Policy Updates:
This policy may be updated periodically. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.
Effective Date: January 1, 2027
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Website Terms and Conditions of Use
Effective Date: 01/01/2027
1. Acceptance of Terms
By accessing and using this website ("Glass Craft and Bead Expo"), you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions and all applicable laws and regulations. If you do not agree with any of these terms, you are prohibited from using or accessing this site.
2. Use of the Site
You may use the Site to view information about the expo and to purchase classes. You agree not to misuse the Site or its content.
3. Purchases and Payments
All purchases made through the Site are subject to our payment terms. You agree to provide accurate and complete payment information. We reserve the right to refuse or cancel any order at our discretion.
4. Cancellations and Refunds
Cancellations must be made in accordance with our cancellation policy. Refunds, if applicable, will be processed according to the terms stated at the time of purchase.
5. Intellectual Property
All content on the Site, including text, graphics, logos, and images, is the property of the Site owner or its content suppliers and is protected by intellectual property laws.
6. Disclaimers
The materials on the Site are provided "as is". We make no warranties, expressed or implied, and disclaim all other warranties including, without limitation, implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
7. Limitations of Liability
In no event shall the Site owner or its suppliers be liable for any damages arising out of the use or inability to use the materials on the Site.
8. Governing Law
These terms and conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [Nevada/United States] and you irrevocably submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in that location.
GCBE 2026 Show Hours
Plan on spending the most time at the show as you can! Daily show hours for GCBE 2026 are below, see you soon!
Friday, April 17, 2026
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM : Show Hours
Saturday, April 18, 2026
- 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM : Show Hours
Sunday, April 19, 2026
- 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM : Show Hours
GCBE 2026 Full Schedule
Check out the full schedule for Glass Craft & Bead Expo 2026. Make sure to keep checking back for updates and feel free to let us know of any ideas of things you would like to see at the show by emailing us at support@glasscraftexpo.com.
Full Schedule
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
- 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM : Registration Desks Open
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM : Classes
- 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM : Evening Classes
- 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM : Glass After Dark: Opening Night Live with Host Jamaison Schuler (Learn More )
Thursday, April 16, 2026
- 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM : Registration Desks Open
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM : Classes
- 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM : Evening Classes
- 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM : Layer by Layer: Designing Intricate Vitrigraph Murrine - Tabitha Burrill (Learn More )
Friday, April 17, 2026
- 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM : Registration Desks Open
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM : Classes
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM : Exhibit Hall Open
- 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM : Demos on Stages
- 4:00 PM : Glass Cutting Contest (Learn More )
- 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM : Evening Classes
- 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM : Narcissus Quagliata - 55 Years of Breaking Tradition (Learn More )
Saturday, April 18, 2026
- 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM : Registration Desks Open
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM : Classes
- 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM : Exhibit Hall Open
- 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM : Demos on Stages
- 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM : Meet the Master: An Intimate Talk with Narcissus Quagliata (Learn More )
- 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM : 30th Anniversary Celebration (Register on Website )
Sunday, April 19, 2026
- 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM : Registration Desks Open
- 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM : Classes
- 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM : Exhibit Hall Open
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM : Demos on Stages
- 12:00 PM : KBW Charity Auction
- 3:00 PM : Expo Closes
GCBE 2027 Demo Schedule
Check out the demo schedule for Glass Craft & Bead Expo 2027. Make sure to keep checking back for updates and feel free to let us know of any ideas of things you would like to see at the show by emailing us at support@glasscraftexpo.com.(*demo schedule subject to change)
Demo Schedule
No demos scheduled at this time.
EXHIBITOR INFO
Exhibit Booth Fee: $1,410.00 per 10' x 10' booth (Add $100.00 per corner) Entire
show floor is carpeted!
Includes: carpet, pipe, drape, two (2) chairs, one (1) 6' table, one (1) trash can, temporary
licensing fee, one-time vacuum of booth space prior to show opening, one (1) ID sign, and WIFI/5G
Cellular. See contract, terms and rules and regulations for details.
Table Top Fee: $530.00
Includes: 1- 6ft draped table, 1 chair, ID sign, wastebasket, 3ft back wall dividers, all drayage,
one-time vacuum of accessible floor space prior to show opening, temporary licensing fee, and
WIFI/5G Cellular.
On your contract it will ask you to list the person who the room credit will be applied to. This process will reward those that support the show by staying at the hotel. As we have explained in the past, the hotel determines our exhibit hall rental prices based upon our sleeping room pickup.
We have negotiated excellent sleeping room rates. Please note, the reduced resort fee of $14 per night will be charged this year and includes all the amenities that the resort fee includes such as in room Wi-Fi, fitness center access, local and toll free in room phone calls, boarding pass printing, airport shuttle (based on availability) and a casino funbook. Not only is the hotel of top quality, it is also a convenience to stay where the show is at.
If you have any questions at all, please let us know. You can email support@glasscraftexpo.com, or call toll free 1-800-217-4527.
Booth Contract Bead Bazaar Contract Terms & Conditions, Rules and Regulations Printable Floor PlanHOTEL DETAILS
HOTEL GROUP CODE RESERVATION DEADLINE MARCH 20TH, 2026
IMPORTANT NOTE: There is a new “rate transparency” law that has been enacted, requiring hotels to include resort fees in all advertised room rates. This law is designed to ensure full transparency in pricing, allowing guests to see the total cost of their stay upfront, including any additional fees. When using the link to book your room, the displayed daily rates include group rates and daily resort fee of $15.93. Applicable taxes are not included. A detailed breakdown of your total stay will be displayed in the rate summary.
GCBE 2026 Exclusive Group Rates for South Point Hotel:
$92 Sunday – Thursday per room per night + resort fee + 13% tax (subject to change)
$162 Friday & Saturday per room per night + resort fee + 13% tax (subject to change)
Discounted Resort Fee of $15.93 per night (Standard is $29.20 per night)
Group Code – GLA0327
For GCBE 2026, you will be making the hotel reservation directly with the South Point Hotel! To get the discounted Glass Craft & Bead Expo rate of $92 per room per night + resort fee + 13% tax (subject to change) Sunday - Thursday and $162 per room per night + resort fee + 13% tax (subject to change) Friday - Saturday, and to receive the discounted Resort Fee (normally $29.20 per night, our rate is $15.93 per night), you must book online or by phone with Group Code – GLA0327.
Online, click this link bookhotel.glasscraftexpo.com for the hotel registration site. After you enter your arrival and departure dates, you will go to the next page that shows the Glass Craft & Bead Event logo and confirms both the group rate and that the resort fee is discounted. You will see the “average” rate for your stay (averaged out over all nights) in the right corner, below that you can also view a price breakdown per night before you select and move on in the registration. Once completed, you will be charged one night room and tax and receive your hotel confirmation number. Booking through our website link or using the group code calling in to the hotel gives you the resort fee discount. If you book with the hotel through a special offer or with an on line service, you will have to pay the full $29.20 plus tax per night resort fee! However, please note that your computer confirmation will show the full resort fee details, although you will be charged the discount resort fee rate upon checkout.
By phone, call 866-791-7626 and use the group code GLA0327 to get the same rates and discounted resort fee. The South Point will charge your credit card for one night room and hotel tax (currently 13% but subject to change) and you will receive your hotel confirmation number.
You must make all changes and cancels over the phone at 866-791-7626.
THINGS TO DO IN LAS VEGAS
Things to do in Las Vegas
Activities Near the South Point Hotel
The South Point Hotel & Conference Center offers numerous dining and entertainment options and attendees may find many other restaurants, shops and recreational opportunities all within a short taxi ride of the property. Of course, the sights and sounds of the famed Las Vegas Strip are just a few miles north on Las Vegas Boulevard. But if you prefer to venture out from "home," then consider some of these alternatives:
ENTERTAINMENT:
There's a good reason why Las Vegas is called the "Entertainment
Capital of the World." Since its Rat Pack days, Las Vegas has been inextricably associated with
legendary shows and entertainers.
Say "Las Vegas" and it's likely that showgirls in elaborate headdresses and Elvis impersonators will come to mind. Today, the Las Vegas entertainment scene still has plenty of its classic glamour, but it has evolved to include so much more. In addition to the iconic Las Vegas entertainment staples, the destination offers a lineup of award-winning magicians, Broadway-caliber productions, world-renowned concert headliners and unique-to-Las Vegas production shows. For more information please visit visitlasvegas.com.
SHOPPING:
If you want it, Vegas has it. From designer splurges to bargain deals, Las
Vegas has become a one-stop shopping Mecca. Everything from colorful souvenir shops to haute couture
boutiques can be found in retail centers along the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding areas.
You won't be alone in your shopping endeavors. More than half of the nearly 39 million visitors who visit Las Vegas each year spent time shopping, according to the 2006 Las Vegas Visitor Profile Study. Las Vegas shoppers spent an average of $140.86 per trip, the study reports, more than twice as much as on sightseeing and show tickets combined. For more information please visit visitlasvegas.com.
NIGHTLIFE:
In 1930, Frank Detra took a chance and opened Pair O' Dice, Las Vegas'
first nightclub. Located on what was then known as the new highway to Los Angeles (today, we call it
the Las Vegas Strip), the club was open only at night.
In addition to bands and jazz performers, the Pair O' Dice served Italian food. Most notably, the establishment had a history of closing and re-opening because it sported gaming tables before the city had legalized gaming and served alcohol during Prohibition.
Nine years later, the Pair O' Dice was sold to police captain and commander of the vice squad Guy McAfee who renamed it the 91 Club. The nightlife scene changes frequently so please visit visitlasvegas.com for more information.
GOLF:
Las Vegas is no longer golf's best-kept secret. In fact, Las Vegas recently
was named the top emerging golf destination in the world by the International Association of Golf
Tour Operators.
From exquisite championship courses designed by legends of the sport to lush fairways and breathtaking views - golf is just another reason the destination attracted 39.2 million visitors in 2007.
Today, more than 60 golf courses are available for play in Las Vegas throughout the year thanks to the area's inviting climate. Las Vegas offers challenging, yet beautifully sculpted courses developed by world-renowned designers including Jack Nicklaus, Tom Weiskopf, Billy Casper, Arnold Palmer and Pete Dye. For more information about golfing in Las Vegas, please visit visitlasvegas.com.
GETTING AROUND TOWN
Getting to the South Point
From the South (California):
Head North on Interstate 15 to Exit 31 (Silverado Ranch
Boulevard). As you exit, stay right and make your first right into the parking area for South Point.
The South Point is located at 9777 Las Vegas Boulevard South.
From the North (Utah, the Las Vegas Strip and downtown):
Head South on Interstate 15 to Exit 31 (Silverado Ranch Boulevard). As you exit, stay in the middle
exit lane and turn left, make your first right into the parking area for South Point.
From the East (Arizona):
Exit Interstate 40 at US 93 and proceed North. Cross bridge
into Nevada and remain on US 93 North until exiting at Interstate 215 West. Take Exit 7 and turn
left onto Eastern Avenue South. Turn right onto Silverado Ranch Blvd. Proceed to Las Vegas Boulevard
South.
From the West (Northern Nevada/CA):
Head South on US 95 and exit onto Interstate 15
South. Exit 31 (Silverado Ranch Boulevard). As you exit, stay in the middle exit lane and turn left,
make your first right into the parking area for South Point
From the Rental Car Terminal at Harry Reid Airport:
Head South on Gilespie St. toward
E. Warm Springs Rd. Turn right on E. Warm Springs Rd. Then turn Left on Las Vegas Blvd. South Point
Hotel & Conference Center is on the right hand side of the road at 9777 Las Vegas Boulevard
South.
Uber and Lyft:
These companies operate in the Las Vegas Valley.
PURCHASE EXPO TICKETS
Registered Students Taking Classes at GCBE do not need to purchase Expo Tickets. You get Free Entry!
*if you purchased a class, you get free entry into the expo and you do not need to purchase a ticket
Purchase Tickets By Phone (No Fee)
You can purchase tickets at the South Point Hotel Box Office in person or over the phone @ 702–797–8055 Noon - 6PM (PST) Mon-Thurs and Noon - 8PM Fri-Sun for no Ticketmaster Fees! Discounted tickets must be purchased in person to validate ID at the South Point Hotel Box Office.
Call For TicketsPurchase Tickets At Event (No Fee)
You can purchase tickets at the ticket counter in front of the expo hall the days of the show April 17th-19th during show hours.
*if you purchased a class, you get free entry into the expo and you do not need to purchase a ticket
BECOME A SPONSOR
EMAIL US IF INTERESTED
Glass Craft & Bead Expo is heralded as one of the most professional, family orientated, educational art glass and bead trade events in the US; this event has it all… and with thousands in attendance each year, there is good cause for celebrating. The team at LVM has spent the last 30 years refining a screening and selection method that brings with it the newest trending methods in glass, jewelry and more specialty classes instructed by the very best hand-picked experts from all over the world. Taking a class is an experience of a lifetime.
The ‘open to the public’ expo hall hardly falls short of spectacular to any hobbyist and comes with it all the right materials for the professional as well. It truly is the glass industry’s favorite Vegas vacation!
Considering sponsoring Glass Craft & Bead Expo is just good business!
Diamond Partner : Limit 2
- Your logo is prominently displayed in the sponsorship area.
- Print Ads: Your logo is displayed on ALL print ads.
- Glass Craft and Bead Expo Website: Your logo on front page rotating Partner Section and in the sponsor section
- Social Media: 5 or more post about your company prior to the show
- Your logo and sponsor level are listed in all email blasts sent out concerning the show.
- 5 Free tickets to the Expo
- 5 free entries into the GCBE 30th Anniversary Party
- 2 complimentary premium booths on show floor
- Table Merchandise: Your merchandise advertising your brand on our tables outside of the expo and classes - minimum 200 (i.e: product samples, coupons, stickers, etc.) (Must bring your own merchandise to the show)
Platinum Sponsor: Limit 5, Value $5,000
- Choice of a specific sponsorship item:
- Co-Sponsor of GCBE 30th Anniversary Party
(Co-sponsor of the 30th Anniversary Party puts your logo on all promotional materials and posts regarding the party and at the party itself) - Show Floor Entry Unit
(Show Floor Entry Unit sponsorship puts your name and logo on a fantastic entry unit where thousands of attendees will see as they enter the show floor)
- Co-Sponsor of GCBE 30th Anniversary Party
- Benefits of Sponsorship:
- Your logo is prominently displayed in the sponsorship area.
- Print Ads: Your logo is displayed on ALL print ads.
- Glass Craft and Bead Expo Website: Your logo on front page rotating Partner Section and in the sponsor section
- Social Media: 3 or more post about your company prior to the show
- Your logo and sponsor level are listed in all email blasts sent out concerning the show.
- 5 Free tickets to the Expo
- 5 free entries into the GCBE 30th Anniversary Party
- Table Merchandise: Your merchandise advertising your brand on our tables outside of the expo and classes - minimum 200 (i.e: product samples, coupons, stickers, etc.) (Must bring your own merchandise to the show)
Gold Sponsor: Limit 7, Value $2,500
- Choice of a specific sponsorship item:
- Classroom Walls (4 walls)
(A banner with your logo prominently displayed on 4 classroom hard walls, sponsoring this item allows for us to insert noise barrier walls to make the classroom settings more enjoyable to the students while showcasing your company!) - Show Lanyards
(As a show lanyard sponsor, your logo along with GCBE’s logo will be displayed on every attendee’s lanyard that they will wear during the duration of the show) - Show guide (Inside cover)
(Sponsoring the show guide allows the show to provide all attendees with a guide for the show with your logo/ad as the inside cover for thousands to see!) - Main Stage Co-Sponsorship
(Becoming a Main Stage Sponsor not only gives your promotion with a banner for on the main stage where all attendees will see as they watch the demos, but your logo on every post regarding demos on the main stage.) - Torch Stage Co-Sponsorship
(As a Torch Stage Sponsor you get marketing with your banner on the torch stage where all attendees will see as they watch the demos, as well as your logo will be on every post regarding demos on the torch stage.)
- Classroom Walls (4 walls)
- Benefits of Sponsorship:
- Your logo prominently displayed on sponsorship item/area
- Print Ads: Your logo displayed on ALL print ads
- Glass Craft and Bead Expo Website: Your logo on front page rotating Partner Section and in the sponsor section
- Social Media: 2 or more post about your company prior to the show
- Your logo and sponsor level listed in all email blasts sent out concerning the show
- 5 Free tickets to the Expo
- 3 free entries into the GCBE 30th Anniversary Party
- Table Merchandise: Your merchandise advertising your brand on our tables outside of the expo and classes - minimum 200 (i.e: product samples, coupons, stickers, etc.) ( Must bring your own merchandise to the show)
- At the Event: Your logo on the sponsorship item (Lanyards, Stage, Classroom Walls, Show Guide)
Silver Sponsor: No Limit, Value $1,500
- Choice of a specific sponsorship item:
- 3 Floor stickers / your logo on a floor sticker (1 in front of your booth, 1 in classroom hallway and 1 in the Expo area)
(As a sponsor of the 3 Floor Stickers, your logo will be displayed in prominent areas where attendees gather, exposing your logo to thousands of attendees) - Show Floor Directional Signage
(Sponsoring the Show Floor Directional Signs, your logo/company name will be displayed while directing attendees to areas on the show floor on a directional sign posted in high traffic areas) - Student Badges
(Logo displayed on the student’s badge insert, this is an excellent marketing opportunity for your company’s logo to be show cased on all our students badges) - Co-Sponsor of Photo Booth
(Co-sponsoring the photo booth is a great sponsorship opportunity that carries outside of just the expo, your logo displayed on each photo that attendees take for them to post and to print to take home) - Recycling Bins (2) (1 in classroom hallway and 1 in Expo area)
(As a sponsor of the Recycling Bins, you will help encourage a greener footprint of the expo all while showcasing your business) - Co-Sponsor Make & Take Area
(Co-sponsoring the Make & Take Area is the perfect opportunity to have your logo on all promotional materials regarding the Make and Takes along with a special creative opportunity to create a make and take for the attendees.) - Co-Sponsor GCBE Community Mosaic Project
(Being a sponsor of the GCBE Community Mosaic Project helps the expo to create a community mosaic that will be displayed at a charity location with your name on the plaque on the installation)
- 3 Floor stickers / your logo on a floor sticker (1 in front of your booth, 1 in classroom hallway and 1 in the Expo area)
- Benefits of Sponsorship:
- Your logo prominently displayed on sponsorship item/area
- Print Ads: Your logo displayed on ALL print ads
- Glass Craft & Bead Expo Website: Your logo on front page rotating Partner Section and in the sponsor section
- Social media: 2 or more posts about your company prior to the show
- Your logo and sponsor level listed in all email blasts sent out concerning the show
- 2 Free tickets to the Expo
- Table Merchandise: Your merchandise advertising your brand on our tables outside of the expo and classes - minimum 200 (i.e: product samples, coupons, stickers, etc.) (Must bring your own merchandise to the show)
- At the Event: Your logo on the sponsorship item (Recycling Bins or Floor Stickers)
Bronze Sponsor: No Limit, Value $1000
- Choice of a specific sponsorship item:
- Banners (2) in chosen areas (MUST BRING OWN PULL-UP BANNERS):
- Classroom hallways
- Entry into expo
- Food court / eating area on show floor
- Banners (2) in chosen areas (MUST BRING OWN PULL-UP BANNERS):
- Benefits of Sponsorship:
- Print Ads: Logo displayed on any full-page ads
- Glass Craft & Bead Expo Website: Your logo on the front-page rotating Partner Section and in the sponsor section
- Social media: 1 or more posts about your company prior to the show
- Your logo and sponsor level listed in all email blasts sent out concerning the show
- 2 Free tickets to the Expo
- Table Merchandise: Your merchandise advertising your brand on our tables outside of the expo and classes - minimum 200 (i.e: product samples, coupons, stickers, etc.) (Must bring your own merchandise to the show)
Gallery of Excellence Prize Sponsor: No Limit, VALUED AT NO LESS THAN $500
Show/Class Supporters: No Limit, VALUED AT NO LESS THAN $500
Ala Cart Sponsorship Items: Contact Show Management for pricing
- Floor sticker / your logo on a floor sticker (1)
- Show Guide Ad/Coupon space
- Your personal Pull up Banner displayed at the show
We appreciate your contribution and support and are always open to your suggestions on how to make the show and your sponsorship work better for you. If you have special events, videos, promotional media, or discounts that you would like us to advertise on our website and/or social media, please send them so we can help bring you more business, your success is our success.
Once you have decided your level of sponsorship, please send us a confirmation email with the details to support@glasscraftexpo.com. Please also include the following: 1. Your logo in as high resolution as possible 2. Your website link 3. Your social media links and/or usernames (Facebook, Instagram). Please make checks payable to: Glass Craft and Bead Expo, 3663 E. Sunset Rd. Suite #509, Las Vegas, NV 89120
EMAIL US IF INTERESTEDSHOW HISTORY
People come from all over the world to take classes and view the show floor for all of the latest and most innovative products and services. Las Vegas has been home to the show with it being held at the South Point Hotel and Conference Center since 2006.
We offer over 250 specialty classes in hot, warm and cold glass. Our instructors come from all over bringing all their expertise in their respective fields. Our show floor offers everything including the latest types and colors of glass, the most innovative kilns, tools and specialty items.
Our "Bead Bazaar" offers a beautiful collection of handmade beads, jewelry and one of a kind specialty items created by some of the most prominent artists in the country.
THE GLASS CRAFT AND BEAD EXPO HISTORY
In 1994 Tommy Licata, founder and owner of Las Vegas Management and Creative Endeavors, was asked if he would be interested in organizing an educational conference and tradeshow for the Art Glass Industry. He and Nancy Montgomery consulted with industry leaders such as Kay Bain-Weiner, Norm Dobbins, Vicki Payne, Joe Porcelli and many others; the result was the Glass Craft Expo. It was held at the Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas the spring of 1995.
1996 Glass Craft Expo moved to the Cashman Convention Center, where it was held for the next 10 years. The Expo was designed to help promote the art glass industry, by offering educational classes, a trade show and networking opportunities, all which were open to the public. The goal was to include all forms of art glass, including stained glass, fused glass, cold working, mosaics, and flameworking. Shirley Harvey became the Show Manager, a position she held for many years.
Lee Anne Short, who had worked on the Creative Endeavors side of the company, took over production of the show after conclusion of the 2003 Expo. On the 10th anniversary, the show was renamed to "Glass Craft & Bead Expo" to include the growing flameworking and bead industries, and later in 2004, Patty Cerajewski was recruited to the Show Manager position.
As the show continued to grow, filling every square foot of the Cashman Center, it was determined that we had outgrown that facility. In 2006 the South Coast Hotel and Conference Center was opened and the show moved to this great facility, with a great combination of meeting rooms, event space, trade show halls, and best of all, on site hotel rooms. South Coast became South Point in 2007, and is still the home of the show.
Tommy Licata passed away in 2008, and the International Hot Glass Invitational held during the 2009 show was dedicated to his memory. The Invitational was the largest flame-off that had ever been held, with teams of 4-5 well known national and international lampworkers competing over two nights creating some of the most incredible sculptures.
Lee Anne and the team continue to work hard every year to bring the best faculty of instructors and the latest in techniques to the average of 1000 students who attend the classes. The trade show floor is filled with the manufacturers and retailers of glass, equipment and tools needed for producing all forms of glass art. In addition there are many artists in booths or the bead bazaar that sell their finished artwork, sculptures, beads and jewelry.
The annual Gallery of Excellence juried art competition entries in both professional and amateur categories astound the attendees each year with the beauty and skill of the work. Local high schools have participated in the gallery for many years. Scholarships for local high school students and teachers have been made available through the Kay Bain-Weiner Foundation, show management and other contributors.
Las Vegas Management would like to thank all the members of the art glass industry, the teachers, exhibitors and students for supporting the Glass Craft & Bead Expo over the years. Many have been with us since the first show. The show has had steady growth, and is proud to promote art glass through education and by providing a quality showcase for product and glass artists alike.
Lee Anne Short, COO
Las Vegas Management
WHOLESALE BUYER REQUIREMENTS
If you choose Wholesale Buyer as your Attendee Type, Wholesale Buyer will automatically be printed on your badge. You will still have to present the required documents listed below to any vendor to qualify for wholesale purchases.
PLEASE NOTE: If you qualify for Wholesale Buyer status and DO NOT select Wholesale Buyer as your Attendee Type, you will NOT be issued another badge on show site. A Wholesale Buyer sticker will be placed on your existing badge.
Wholesale Buyer Badge Requirements
To qualify for a wholesale buyer badge, you must be the owner of a retail glass industry business or an assigned employee working for the store. You must also present a Resale Tax Certificate or business license and one of the following:
- Business Card
- Business Check
- Business Credit Card
Some vendors will accept a current year's invoice from a supplier for over $200 net. Please bring the necessary information with you to the show. Las Vegas Management will indicate "Wholesale Buyer" on your badge when you present it at the Exhibit Hall registration desk. DO NOT SEND any of your information to Las Vegas Management.
PLEASE NOTE: Exhibitors have their own company rules as to what types of purchases qualify for wholesale buying. You may have to fill out a wholesale exemption form for the vendor to keep on file for your tax purposes. Do not expect to receive wholesale pricing for individual purchases.
There is a $13 USD fee for this badge type payable at registration checkout.
This fee is waived with the purchase of any class.
If you have any questions at all, please let us know. You can email support@glasscraftexpo.com, or call toll free 1-800-217-4527.
Official Gallery of Excellence Rules & Regulations
The Gallery of Excellence is open to everyone; All skill levels from beginning crafters to studio artists are encouraged to enter. All entry forms must be submitted by Sunday, April, 4th, 2027, at 11:59pm, to be considered for the Gallery of Excellence. With the growing number of entries, no entries will be accepted after that date.
All artwork submitted into the Gallery of Excellence must be made by the artist making the submission
Category Criteria
*Each category will have both a Professional and Amateur division- Jewelry/Beads (Must be able to be hung/worn)
- Blown & Flame Worked
- Mixed Media (Must include components of glass and/or metal)
- Fused/Cast/Kiln Worked
- Mosaic
- Stained Glass
If you have questions about which category best fits your piece of art, please reach out to GCBE management at support@glasscraftexpo.com.
Please be aware that GCBE management maintains the right to edit the category that a piece of art has been submitted to the Gallery of Excellence without notice, to ensure that all submissions fit within the appropriate category.
Las Vegas Management is not liable for the safety of any art; 24-hour security is provided but fire, theft, and liability insurance are the sole responsibility of the artist. Liability waiver must be signed on the entry form.
GOE registration & Entry drop off
- There is a two (2) entry limit for all participants
- $25 Registration fee per piece (The GOE registration fee is to be paid for upon submission on site, no online payments will be accepted)
- If you are a registered student, class instructor, or main exhibitor you may enter one piece free of charge, there is a $25 charge for the second entry piece if applicable.
- All who enter must attend the 2026 Glass Craft and Bead Expo, if you are not in attendance, you will be ineligible from receiving any awards and prizes
- Artwork must be physically submitted to the Glass Craft and Bead GOE desk located by the exhibit hall between:
- Wednesday, March 31st from 10am – 6pm
- Thursday, April 1st from 10am – 6pm
- No pieces will be accepted after these times – NO EXCEPTIONS
- Artwork is required to be properly marked with artist name and title of the artwork upon drop off
- Artwork should be hand-carried to the show or if shipping is necessary, please ship to the hotel in care of yourself
- All hotel handling costs will be at your own expense
- Please ensure that any shipped artwork does not arrive more than two (2) days prior to your arrival
Submission & Display requirements
- A photo of the art piece will be required before the submission is displayed within the gallery; this photo will be used for voting purposes only (professional photo not required) so that attendees can vote for peoples choice through our online voting system
- Artwork cannot exceed fifty (50) pounds
- Hanging artwork cannot exceed thirty (30) pounds
- Hanging artwork cannot exceed three (3) feet wide
- Hanging artwork must have wires or hook hardware for display as artwork cannot be screwed or nailed to walls
- any other hanging hardware must be pre-approved by Las Vegas Management prior to show
- Artwork requiring a stand or jewelry neck for display, must be provided by the artist
- Artwork that requires power
- extension cord must be provided by artist and pre-approved prior to show
- Artwork that requires special lighting
- must be provided by artist and pre-approved prior to show
- No artwork will be allowed to be placed on easels
- We will make every effort to display your art to your specifications but please note that physical placement of the art in the Gallery is at the discretion of the GCBE team
Judging, Winners, Photos & Pickup
- Entries must stay in the GOE display area until the end of show April 4th, 2027 @ 3pm – No exceptions
- If you cannot leave your art on display through 3:00pm on April 4th, 2027 @ 3pm, please do not enter
- If your art is pulled before 3:00pm on Sunday for any reason, you will be ineligible from receiving any awards/prizes and the artist will be ineligible from entering into the Gallery of Excellence the following year
- There are 4 potential winners per category (and per division)
- 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Place – judged by industry professionals
- People’s Choice – Chosen by GCBE attendees through our online voting system
- Prizes
- Placement ribbons for all winners
- Professional photos of all winning artwork
- Publication within
- On GCBE website
- On GCBE social media
- Other prizes may be awarded at discretion of the GCBE team
- Winners will be announced on Sunday April 4th, 2027, at 10am within the Gallery of Excellence
- Photos are not guaranteed for non-winning pieces, but we will do our best to take as many photos as possible
- All entries are required to be picked-up between 3:00pm – 6:00pm on Sunday (April 4th, 2027), the Gallery will close at 2:30pm to prep for artwork pickup.
By attending, registering for, exhibiting at, or instructing at our Glass Craft & Bead Expo you agree to all terms, rules, and regulations set forth by Las Vegas Management. Management reserves the right to reject or prohibit anyone it judges is not suitable to and in keeping with the character of the exhibition.
Gallery of Excellence Art Drop Off Details
GOE Art Submission Drop off
- Artwork must be physically submitted to the Glass Craft and Bead Expo GOE desk located by the exhibit hall between:
- Wednesday, March 31st from 10am – 6pm
- Thursday, April 1st from 10am – 6pm
- No pieces will be accepted after these times – NO EXCEPTIONS
- The GOE registration fee is to be paid for upon submission on site (no online payments will be accepted)
- Artwork is required to be properly marked with artist name and title of the artwork upon drop off
- Artwork should be hand-carried to the show or if shipping is necessary, please ship to the hotel in care of yourself
- All hotel handling costs will be at your own expense
- Please ensure that any shipped artwork does not arrive more than two (2) days prior to your arrival
- Entries must stay in the GOE display area until the end of show April 4th, 2027 @ 3pm – No exceptions
GCBE 2026 Booth Prices
Standard Booth, 10' x 10'
Includes 6' draped table, 2 chairs, ID sign, 8ft backdrops and 3 ft side dividers, carpeting, waste basket(Includes vacuuming of booth space prior to show opening, Temporary Licensing Fee and Wifi and 5G cellular)
1st Booth Cost: $1,400.00
Each Additional Booth Cost: $1,200.00
Premium Corners: please add $100
Table Top Displays
Includes 1- 6' draped table, 1 chair, ID sign, 3 ft back wall dividers, carpeting, waste basket, vacuuming of accessible floor space prior to show opening, Temporary Licensing fee and Wi-Fi and 5G cellular.1st Table Cost - $580.00
Each Additional Table Cost: $500.00
Premium Pricing: Row A add $100 per table
Double row end cap location add $200
Call for pricing on Pavilions.
Please Note: If you are staying at the host property, please make your reservation through our website and watch out for scam artists pretending to be the official hotel registration company.Why become a GCBE instructor?
Becoming an instructor at the Glass Craft and Bead Expo offers the chance to share your artistic knowledge, earn income, and connect with both students and industry professionals. It's a valuable networking opportunity with artists from around the world and supports GCBE’s mission to promote art, especially glass art, to new generations.
Why exhibit at the Glass Craft & Bead Expo?
For over 30 years, our internationally renowned Glass and Art event has brought together artists, collectors, and enthusiasts from around the world. Open to the public, this unique gathering is a prime opportunity for exhibitors to:
- Reach a Global Audience: Thousands of attendees from all over the world come to discover, buy, and connect with artists and suppliers.
- Sell Directly to Buyers: Whether you offer finished artwork or essential supplies, this event attracts serious collectors and dedicated creators eager to purchase on the spot.
- Build Your Brand: Showcase your products or artwork in front of a passionate, art-loving audience with strong purchasing power.
- Join a Trusted Tradition: With three decades of success, our event offers a well-established platform that delivers results year after year.
Whether you're a supplier or an artist, exhibiting here connects you with the people who matter most—your customers.