A Festival of Sea Glass

I had a very busy weekend, but on Sunday morning my husband pointed out to me there was a Sea Glass Festival going on in Long Branch. I dropped everything and zoomed down there. I am so glad I did.

The festival was put on by the North American Sea Glass Association. They put on a festival each year, in different coastal towns across North America. Previous festivals have been in Santa Cruz, CA and Hyannis, MA. I wonder where the next will be? I definitely plan on attending.

I couldn't believe what I saw when I got there. A hundred vendors were selling creations made of beach glass. There was a ton of jewelry, plus stained glass, wreaths, ornaments and more. There were photographers with notecards and calendars of beachglass finds. There were also sellers of beach glass and beach pottery.

Besides selling their pieces, most of the vendors also had displays of their special treasures - not for sale - but just to share. It was fascinating to see the different finds from different places. Certain colors are found more in one place than the other. Also, beach pottery was shown as well.

Another area held tables where members of the club showed their finds too. They were not for sale, just to share.

Members of the local Antique Bottle Collectors Club had a table where they helped identify the origins of different shards and finds. There was a long line, but very happy collectors who finally got their answers.

The best part of the show was an area where anyone attending could enter their own beach finds into the Shard of the Year contest.  There were hundreds of super interesting pieces displayed together.  Attendees could view the finds. I didn't stay for the final judging, but last years first place winner received $1000. I wish I had brought one of my finds there. I'll have to do it next year.

Everyone I spoke to, both vendors and attendees, were so friendly and enthusiastic. Everyone there was addicted to beachcombing, as much as I am. I'm going to join the association today and look forward to becoming a part of the next show.  How about you? Do you want to join me?