Erie's Beach Glass Treasures Found Here

Saturday, May 4 - 5

Did you know that Erie is one of the top ten places for finding a wide variety of beach glass? It's a refreshing fact when our notoriety often stems from our annual snowfall record; beach glass is a much-welcomed friend.

Discover the incredible art that is created from trash turned to treasure, or purely celebrate the beauty of Lake Erie at the fifth bi-annual Great Lakes Beach Glass and Coastal Arts Festival.

Jennifer Reed, co-owner of local shop Relish, is both the brains and heart behind this festival. "I'm excited to see the scores of local people that will come and support this. We need to celebrate Erie and the beautiful lake that's unique to our area," explained Reed.

What makes this event truly unique (besides all the one-of-a-kind art), is that the artists are coming from all over the country, even as far as California and Washington.

The art you'll be seeing isn't just made out of beach glass. Woodworkers, painters, and sculptors are just a few examples of the kinds of artists who are coming together in Erie to celebrate the beauty of water. "There will be a body of work here unlike anything you'll see anywhere else," Reed said.

Reed donates spaces to different non-profits in the area, and this year the Inner-City Neighborhood Art House will be there, sharing their talent and art.

"It's a great family outing, and right before Mother's Day. We have wine tasting, fun, and informative lectures from trash to treasure, face painting for the kids, and on display we're showcasing the largest piece of sea glass from Lake Erie that weighs in at over 275 pounds," informs Reed.

If you appreciate the beautiful waters of Lake Erie, then this event is a must. The Great Lakes Beach Glass and Coastal Arts Festival is as unique as the city it's taking place in. — Kalli Oberlander

Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. // Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Pier // $6, children 10 and under free, $15 VIP // relishinc.com