Bead Fest

08/11/2026

Four days. Countless beads. One incredible community. ✨

Bead Fest 2026 reminded us why gathering together matters.

From August 5–8, makers came together to learn, create, reconnect, discover new techniques, and—of course—shop!

There was so much to celebrate: hands-on workshops and show-floor education, a Marketplace filled with beads, tools, supplies, and inspiration, the incredible artistry of our Bead Arts Awards winners and special bead art exhibit, and opportunities to meet and connect with the artists behind the work.

Marketplace attendees were especially excited to receive swag bags featuring Swarovski® Crystals—sparking plenty of ideas for what to make next!

We also gathered for a special evening event cohosted by Bead Fest and Beads of Courage, supporting the important work of this wonderful organization.

But some of our favorite moments were the ones that can’t quite be scheduled: seeing longtime friends reunite, meeting someone in person for the first time, sharing ideas across a workshop table, discovering a new artist, stocking up for holiday markets, and leaving with renewed creative energy.

Thank you to every instructor, artist, exhibitor, award winner, attendee, volunteer, and partner who made Bead Fest 2026 such a memorable celebration of the bead and jewelry community.

We loved creating with you. ❤️

(Watch to the end for next year’s dates!)

08/07/2026

✨ Bead Fest 2026 is officially underway, and the energy is incredible! Classrooms are buzzing with creativity as students learn from world-class instructors, while the Marketplace is filled with stunning beads, gemstones, jewelry supplies, tools, and one-of-a-kind finds from vendors across the country. Stop on by Valley Forge Casino Resort in King of Prussia, PA before it ends!

Marketplace Hours:
Friday 10am-5pm
Saturday 10am-2pm

https://www.makerfestivals.com/beadfest-2026/9738968

08/06/2026

Our vendors are ready and waiting for you! Come shop with us!

You can register online before coming www.beadfest.com or buy your ticket when you get here!

08/04/2026

✨ Bead Fest starts TOMORROW! ✨

The classrooms are coming to life, instructors are setting up, and we’re getting ready to welcome makers from across the country.

📅 Workshops: August 5–8
🛍️ Marketplace: August 6–8

A few highlights you won’t want to miss:
💙 Cocktails for Courage in support of Beads of Courage® still has a limited number of tickets available.
💎 FREE Swarovski® Crystals swag bags for Marketplace attendees while supplies last!

Whether you’re joining us for a workshop, shopping the Marketplace, or both, we can’t wait to see you at Bead Fest. Safe travels to everyone on their way—we’ll see you soon!

07/22/2026

🛍️Use discount code SHOP5🛍️ It's not too late... but time is running out!

www.beadfest.com

07/16/2026

Michelle Brennan HyperLynks is bringing incredible talent and expertise in Chain Maille and Wire Jewelry Making to Bead Fest!

Register NOW at www.beadfest.com

Michelle Brennan is a chainmaille artist, whom, along with her husband, owns and operates HyperLynks – Premium Chainmaille Supplies near Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Michelle has written over 150 unique chainmaille patterns, many of which have been published by magazines such as “Step by Step Wire” and “Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist.” Michelle has taught classes at various craft stores, events, and bead festivals across North America.

07/16/2026

Did you buy your ticket yet??

Just 20 days until Bead Fest 2026! Are you ready?

Have you planned your workshops yet? And don't forget to map out your Marketplace shopping spree before you arrive!

We'll see you August 5–8 in Valley Forge, PA! https://buff.ly/OWKbIdO

07/15/2026

🌟 Meet first-time Bead Fest instructor Linda Best Shaen! A nationally recognized bead weaving artist and instructor, Linda has inspired students for over 35 years with her creative designs, simplified techniques, and passion for helping every student succeed.

Register at www.beadfest.com and use code INSPIRE to save $10 off workshops!

07/15/2026

🎉 Help us welcome Leslie Pope to Bead Fest! Better known as Twisted Sistah Beads, Leslie has been inspiring beaders for over 20 years through her designs, classes, and publications. As Creative Director at The BeadSmith, she works with the latest products and techniques—and now she's bringing that expertise to Bead Fest!

Use discount code INSPIRE to save $10 on workshops at www.beadfest.com

07/14/2026

Why take a class with Annette?

✨ Learn elegant, wearable jewelry techniques.
💎 Explore beautiful color and texture combinations.
🤝 Enjoy a fun, welcoming classroom experience.
🎨 Leave inspired to create your next masterpiece.

Register now at www.beadfest.com use code INSPIRE to save $10 on workshops.