Czech glassmakers open their workshops to the public for a special week

Czechia's centuries-old glassmaking tradition will take center stage this weekend as workshops, factories, and museums across the country welcome visitors for a nationwide celebration of the craft.

The second annual Glassmakers' Week (Týden sklářů) runs from October 17 to 25, bringing together more than 70 glassmaking businesses, jewelry producers, museums, and other organizations.

According to Czech News Agency ČTK, visitors will have opportunities to watch traditional production techniques, explore working studios, and participate in creative workshops, with many events taking place in northern Czechia's historic glassmaking region.

Organized by the Museum of Glass and Jewelry in Jablonec nad Nisou, the event aims to introduce visitors to both traditional craftsmanship and the modern glass industry.

The celebration also marks three years since handmade glass production was added to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023.

Glassmaking has deep roots in the Czech lands, particularly in northern Bohemia, where generations of artisans have developed techniques ranging from glassblowing and cutting to decorative jewelry production.

This year's program includes factory tours, live demonstrations, exhibitions, lectures, and opportunities to try working with glass under professional guidance.

A major highlight will be Crystal Valley Weekend on October 17 and 18, when more than 50 workshops, companies, and cultural institutions in the Liberec region will open their doors to visitors.

Meanwhile, the Museum of Glass and Jewelry in Jablonec nad Nisou will host activities throughout the week, including glassmaking demonstrations, creative workshops, guided tours, and exhibitions.

One exhibition will focus on the history of Czech glass Christmas ornaments, while another will connect historic costume jewelry with contemporary jewelry design.

Although northern Bohemia remains the center of the celebrations, events are taking place in several regions, including locations accessible from Prague.

At the Rückl glassworks in Nižbor, visitors can explore traditional crystal production through guided factory tours, hands-on glassmaking experiences, and glass-painting workshops.

The glassworks is offering a 15 percent discount on selected activities during the event, using the promotional code TS15. Its special program runs from October 17 to 24.

For those planning a longer cultural trip, Jablonec nad Nisou and the surrounding Crystal Valley region offer a concentration of participating studios, factories, and museums.

The Museum of Glass and Jewelry's official event calendar provides details of activities taking place throughout the week.

As individual venues set their own opening hours and programs, visitors should check arrangements and any booking requirements before traveling.

Whether watching molten glass take shape or trying a traditional decorative technique, the event offers a chance to experience one of Czechia's best-known crafts beyond the souvenir shop.