LAURELVILLE, Ohio — As the Hocking Hills begin to shake off the final traces of winter, one of the region’s most vibrant spring traditions is set to return. Renowned artist Jack Pine has officially announced the 2026 Glass Garden Art Festival, scheduled to transform his Laurelville studio grounds from May 1–3.
The three-day event has become a cornerstone of the local arts scene, blending fine craftsmanship with the natural beauty of the hills to kick off the gardening and outdoor décor season.
Artistry in the Hills
The festival’s centerpiece is a sprawling 11-acre display featuring thousands of hand-blown glass pumpkins, flowers, and abstract sculptures. Jack Pine and his team of artisans have been working for months to create more than 1,000 glass pumpkins in luminous spring palettes—perfect for early Mother’s Day shopping.
Visitors can expect:
- Live Glassblowing: Pine and his team will provide live demonstrations throughout the weekend, offering a rare look at the molten artistry behind the glass.
- Artisanal Market: More than two dozen guest artists will showcase everything from metal sculptures and windchimes to wearable art and birdhouses.
- The Mother’s Day Pumpkin: The 2026 annual collectible pumpkin, which benefits a local charity, will be officially unveiled on April 18 and available for the first time at the festival.
The “Taste of Morels”
Foodies and foragers will find a unique highlight in the “Morel Man,” who will be on-site selling fresh-picked and dried morel mushrooms.
On Friday, May 1, the festival hosts the “Taste of Morels” from noon to 6 p.m. For $35, guests can sample specially crafted morel dishes from four featured food trucks and vote for their favorite. These tickets typically sell out quickly and include the added perk of free VIP parking for the entire weekend.
Plan Your Visit
To manage the “wildly popular” crowds, organizers recommend carpooling. Prime parking can be reserved in advance for $5 at glassgardenfestival.com. Each reservation includes a $5 coupon toward any Jack Pine glass art purchase.
Festival Hours:
- Friday, May 1: Noon – 7 p.m.
- Saturday, May 2: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Sunday, May 3: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Whether you’re hunting for the perfect Mother’s Day gift, looking to spruce up your garden, or simply craving the taste of spring morels, the Glass Garden Art Festival offers a uniquely Hocking Hills experience.
