Venice, a city of water and history, has for centuries been the guardian of a millenary art: glassmaking. Originating in the 8th century and relocated to the island of Murano in 1291 to safeguard both its secrets and security, this craft has made Murano a global beacon of glass production. Here, master glassmakers refined unique techniques—from the almost transparent crystal of the 15th century to the intricate lampworking and millefiori designs—passing down knowledge that blends craftsmanship, artistic flair, and skilled hands. Every piece of Murano glass tells a story of dedication and innovation, merging the richness of the past with the freshness of the present.
Today, this tradition is renewed and celebrated with The Venice Glass Week, an international festival that since 2017 has illuminated Venice, Murano, and Mestre with the magic of glass. Now in its ninth edition, taking place from 13 to 21 September 2025, the festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a world where ancient glassmaking meets the most contemporary expressions.
The Venice Glass Week is not just a festival, but a true movement dedicated to preserving and innovating the art of glass. Through a rich and diverse program, the festival offers a unique platform for artists, designers, collectors, and enthusiasts from all over the world. It is an opportunity not only to admire the beauty and complexity of glass creations, but also to understand the creative process behind each work. The festival is committed to supporting young talents, ensuring that glassmaking techniques and traditions continue to evolve and inspire future generations.
The history of Murano glass is steeped in secrets and mastery, carefully passed down from generation to generation. Over the centuries, refined techniques have transformed raw materials into works of extraordinary beauty. Among the most renowned, glassblowing makes it possible to create delicate and intricate forms, while lampworking gives life to finely detailed pieces, such as the famous beads. The millefiori technique, or murrine, is a true spectacle of colors and geometries, where sections of glass canes are fused together to form floral or abstract patterns. Equally fascinating is the art of embedding precious metal threads, such as gold and silver, into molten glass, endowing creations with a unique brilliance.
These techniques are not merely relics of the past, but a living heritage that continues to evolve. The Murano glassmasters, with their skill and passion, are the guardians of this tradition, able to infuse glass not only with form and color, but also with soul. Every object—whether a sumptuous chandelier, a modern sculpture, or a small jewel—embodies the story of an art that has endured through time, adapting and reinventing itself while preserving its magical essence.
The Venice Glass Week offers the perfect opportunity to witness live demonstrations, meet the artisans, and uncover the secrets of this fascinating craft—an experience that goes beyond observation, reaching into the very soul of Venetian glassmaking.
The Venice Glass Week transforms Venice, Murano, and Mestre into a widespread stage for glass art, offering visitors a wide range of immersive experiences and unique opportunities. The 2025 edition, with its theme #TheMagicOfGlass, promises to enchant and surprise, celebrating the versatility and beauty of glass in all its forms.
Exhibitions and Installations: at the heart of the festival are the numerous exhibitions and installations that enliven historic palaces, art galleries, museums, and furnaces. Here, internationally renowned artists and emerging talents showcase works ranging from contemporary design to classical interpretations, revealing the extraordinary ability of glass to adapt to different styles and concepts. Each exhibition is a visual journey that invites contemplation and discovery, highlighting the infinite expressive possibilities of this material.
Events and Live Demonstrations: for those seeking a more direct connection with glass art, the festival offers a rich program of events and live demonstrations. In the furnaces of Murano, master glassmakers open their doors to reveal the fascinating process of glassmaking, from the fusion of glowing silica to the creation of finished objects. Watching glassblowing, hot shaping, or hand decoration is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to appreciate the mastery and passion behind every artisan’s work. These moments of direct interaction provide a unique perspective on craftsmanship and on the tradition handed down from generation to generation.
The Under35 HUB: The Future of Glass: a special focus is dedicated to young talents with the Under35 HUB, a section aimed at promoting the new generations of glass artists and designers. This initiative is essential for ensuring the continuity and innovation of glass art, offering young creators the chance to showcase their work and engage with both the public and industry professionals. The Under35 HUB is a true laboratory of ideas and a springboard for emerging trends in the glass world.
Talks and Workshops: the Venice Glass Week is also a place for dialogue and learning. Conferences, seminars, and workshops provide opportunities to explore themes related to the history of glass, new technologies, design, and sustainability. Taking part in a workshop offers the chance to experience firsthand some glassmaking techniques—creating a small object of your own and taking home a tangible memory of this unique experience.
The festival is an opportunity to explore not only the art of glass, but also the culture and beauty of Venice and its islands, combining artistic discovery with the charm of one of the world’s most enchanting cities. Every corner, every calle, every palace can become an art gallery, making The Venice Glass Week an unmissable event for anyone who loves art, history, and beauty.
In conclusion, The Venice Glass Week is much more than just a festival: it is a vibrant celebration of an ancient art that continues to inspire and innovate. It is an invitation to discover the magic of glass, to be captivated by the mastery of the artisans, and to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Venice. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply in search of a unique experience, The Venice Glass Week offers an unmissable opportunity to connect with an invaluable artistic heritage and to witness the birth of new forms of beauty. Don’t miss the chance to experience this fascinating and sparkling journey.
