Whether you’re a seasoned potter or simply appreciate the artistry of ceramics, 2025 offers a plethora of pottery festivals worldwide. These events provide opportunities to witness masterful craftsmanship, participate in hands-on workshops, and immerse yourself in diverse ceramic traditions. Notably, the Icheon Ceramic Festival in South Korea stands out as a must-visit for enthusiasts.
1. Icheon Ceramic Festival (South Korea) – The Heart of Korean Pottery Culture
- Dates: April 25 – May 6, 2025
- Location: Seolbong Park & Ye’s Park, Icheon, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
- Festival Highlights:
- Over 120 ceramic studios showcasing traditional Korean styles like celadon, white porcelain, and buncheong
- Live kiln firings, hands-on pottery workshops, and family-friendly clay experiences
- Cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactive installations
- A chance to meet Korean master artisans and explore Icheon’s UNESCO-certified crafts heritage
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
If you attend just one pottery festival in 2025, make it Icheon. This UNESCO-designated City of Crafts and Folk Art has been the beating heart of Korean ceramics for centuries, and its annual Icheon Ceramic Festival is a stunning celebration of that legacy.
Held each spring in the scenic surroundings of Seolbong Park and the artist-filled Ye’s Park, this festival blends history, artistry, and hands-on creativity. Visitors can try their hand at the wheel, witness dramatic traditional wood-fired kiln openings, and shop handcrafted pieces directly from Korea’s top potters—all while enjoying performances, local food, and a festive atmosphere.
What sets Icheon apart is its immersive experience: you’re not just observing pottery, you’re stepping into a living, breathing ceramic culture. Whether you’re a serious collector or a casual admirer, Icheon offers the rare opportunity to connect deeply with the roots and evolution of East Asian ceramics.
Pro tip: Plan extra time to explore the surrounding ceramic villages and museums—or relax in one of Icheon’s famous hot springs after a full day of pottery discovery.
2. Arita Ceramics Fair (Japan) – Japan’s Largest & Most Beloved Porcelain Street Market
- Dates: April 29 – May 5, 2025 (coinciding with Japan’s Golden Week)
- Location: Arita Town, Saga Prefecture, Japan
- Festival Highlights:
- Nearly 500 stalls lining the streets, offering authentic Arita and Imari porcelain at unbeatable prices
- Rare opportunity to purchase directly from generations-old kilns and family-run studios
- Live pottery painting, throwing demos, and cultural parades
- Local food stalls, taiko drum performances, and a lively festival atmosphere
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Every spring, the quiet town of Arita transforms into one of the world’s largest outdoor ceramic markets, attracting over a million pottery lovers from Japan and abroad. Known as the birthplace of Japanese porcelain, Arita boasts a 400-year ceramic tradition—and the Arita Ceramics Fair is your front-row ticket to this living legacy.
For seven days, the streets are closed to traffic and overflow with booth after booth of fine porcelain, everyday tableware, and modern ceramic art. From meticulously hand-painted tea sets to elegant blue-and-white plates, there’s something for every taste and budget. And yes—bargain hunters, take note: prices drop dramatically toward the end of the week.
Beyond shopping, visitors can immerse themselves in the craft by watching artisans at work, touring local kilns, or visiting the nearby Kyushu Ceramic Museum. The atmosphere is festive and friendly, blending old-world charm with the energy of Golden Week travel.
Insider tip: Go early in the week for the best selection. Visit again on the final day for serious deals.
3. Jingdezhen International Ceramic Fair (China) – The Porcelain Capital’s Grandest Celebration
- Dates: October 18 – 22, 2025 (estimated; official dates TBA)
- Location: Jingdezhen, Jiangxi Province, China
- Festival Highlights:
- Massive international expo featuring 700+ ceramic brands, artists, and exhibitors from over 20 countries
- Separate halls for fine art ceramics, traditional Chinese porcelain, and cutting-edge industrial design
- Live demos by Jingdezhen’s master artisans, cultural forums, and antique exhibitions
- Side events across the city—night markets, gallery shows, and hands-on studio experiences
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Jingdezhen isn’t just another city—it’s known as the “Porcelain Capital of the World.” For over 1,000 years, it has produced imperial ceramics prized across dynasties, and today it continues to shape the future of clay. The Jingdezhen International Ceramic Fair is your opportunity to see this legacy in action.
This week-long event is part trade show, part cultural festival. You’ll explore sprawling exhibition halls filled with everything from blue-and-white porcelain masterpieces to high-tech ceramic innovations. Plus, the city’s energy spills beyond the official fairgrounds—wander down Taoxichuan Ceramic Art Avenue, visit ancient kiln ruins, or attend open-studio nights hosted by artists from around the globe.
It’s a destination for collectors, artists, curators, and anyone enchanted by ceramics. Whether you’re drawn to the history or excited by the future of clay, Jingdezhen offers an unmatched, immersive experience.
Pro tip: Combine your visit with a short stay at a local artist residency or take a weekend workshop in Sanbao Ceramic Art Village.
4. NCECA 2025 Conference (USA) – The Largest Ceramic Arts Gathering in the World
- Dates: March 26–29, 2025
- Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA (Salt Palace Convention Center + 80+ venues citywide)
- Festival Highlights:
- 80+ exhibitions across Salt Lake City featuring top ceramic artists from around the world
- Live demos from master potters, sculptors, and innovators in clay
- Lectures, panel discussions, and professional development sessions
- A massive vendor hall packed with tools, kilns, clay, and beautiful artwork for sale
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Hosted by the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts, NCECA (pronounced “en-see-kah”) is not just a conference—it’s a clay lover’s dream come true. With over 5,000 attendees each year, it’s the largest ceramics event in the world, attracting artists, educators, collectors, and curious fans from every continent.
In 2025, Salt Lake City becomes the epicenter of ceramic creativity. For four unforgettable days, the city transforms into an open-air museum and classroom, with pop-up exhibitions in galleries, universities, and museums. You’ll find everything from elegant wheel-thrown forms to radical, experimental installations.
At the heart of the conference is the Salt Palace Convention Center, where you can sit in on artist talks, watch world-class demos, explore technical workshops, or simply walk the Resource Hall—a bustling market filled with tools, glaze gear, and artist booths.
Whether you’re a potter looking to sharpen your skills, an art student seeking inspiration, or a collector who just wants to soak it all in, NCECA 2025 delivers energy, education, and endless clay magic.
Bonus: Many exhibitions and satellite events are free and open to the public—perfect for non-potters who just love the art form.
5. International Ceramics Festival (Wales, UK) – Europe’s Ultimate Clay-Fueled Weekend
- Dates: June 27–29, 2025
- Location: Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Aberystwyth, Wales, UK
- Festival Highlights:
- Live demos from internationally renowned ceramic artists across multiple stages
- Spectacular outdoor kiln firings and pyro performances under the stars
- Interactive workshops, film screenings, and panel talks
- A buzzing community of potters, collectors, and clay-curious creatives
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Held every two years on the beautiful Welsh coastline, the International Ceramics Festival (ICF) is one of the most vibrant and respected ceramics events in Europe. Over three immersive days, the festival brings together master potters, experimental sculptors, educators, and hobbyists for a one-of-a-kind celebration of clay.
At the core of the festival are the live demonstrations—watch celebrated artists from around the world throw, sculpt, carve, and fire their pieces right in front of you. Whether you’re mesmerized by massive pots on the wheel or intrigued by alternative firing techniques, it’s a non-stop showcase of craftsmanship and creativity.
As night falls, the energy ramps up with dramatic kiln firings, raku events, and experimental installations that literally go up in flames. Add to that the sense of community—shared meals, casual chats, and spontaneous clay collaborations—and you’ve got an unforgettable experience.
Good to know: The festival is located at Aberystwyth University’s arts center, which means on-site accommodations, food, and beautiful views of Cardigan Bay are all part of the package.
6. Ceramic Art London (UK) – The Premier Showcase for Contemporary Ceramic Art
- Dates: May 9–11, 2025
- Location: Olympia West, London, UK
- Festival Highlights:
- 120+ leading ceramic artists from the UK and around the world exhibiting and selling their work
- A curated selection of functional wares, sculptural pieces, and avant-garde ceramic installations
- Engaging artist talks and panel discussions on design, creativity, and ceramic innovation
- Ideal for collectors, interior designers, and anyone passionate about fine contemporary craft
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
If you’re drawn to ceramic art that pushes creative boundaries, Ceramic Art London is a must-visit. Hosted by the Craft Potters Association, this high-profile fair is regarded as the UK’s leading event for contemporary ceramics, attracting both serious collectors and curious newcomers.
Each exhibitor is hand-selected, and you’ll find a stunning range of work—from minimalist tableware to bold ceramic sculptures, experimental forms, and museum-worthy pieces. Many of the artists are internationally recognized, while others are rising stars making their London debut.
Set in the modern and spacious Olympia West venue, the fair offers a relaxed yet elevated experience. You can browse, shop, and chat directly with the artists about their techniques, stories, and processes—an opportunity rarely available in traditional gallery settings.
Beyond the artwork, the speaker program adds depth, featuring insightful talks from makers, curators, and critics discussing the role of ceramics in art, design, and daily life.
Insider tip: Arrive early for the best selection—many pieces sell out quickly. And if you’re a design lover, this event pairs perfectly with a weekend of exploring London’s art museums and maker districts.
7. British Ceramics Biennial (England, UK) – Where History Meets the Future of Clay
- Dates: September 6 – October 19, 2025
- Location: Spode Works & venues across Stoke-on-Trent, England
- Festival Highlights:
- Bold, contemporary ceramic art exhibitions in an iconic industrial pottery site
- FRESH showcase featuring the UK’s most promising emerging ceramic talents
- Interactive installations, artist residencies, and clay community projects
- Talks, panel discussions, family-friendly workshops, and hands-on events
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Held in Stoke-on-Trent—the historic heart of British ceramics—the British Ceramics Biennial (BCB) is the UK’s largest celebration of contemporary clay culture. It’s not your typical pottery fair: it’s an immersive art experience where ceramic innovation meets industrial heritage.
The main venue, Spode Works, is a sprawling former factory reimagined as a creative space. Here, you’ll explore stunning exhibitions that range from conceptual installations to finely crafted works by some of the UK’s top ceramicists. The event also features the prestigious BCB Award exhibition, showcasing groundbreaking new voices in ceramics.
Looking for fresh talent? Don’t miss the FRESH exhibition, spotlighting outstanding ceramic graduates from across the UK—a peek into the next generation of clay makers.
But BCB isn’t just about viewing. It’s participatory. You can join workshops, community art projects, and even add your own mark to large-scale clay collaborations. The atmosphere is welcoming, creative, and buzzing with dialogue between artists and visitors alike.
Bonus: 2025 marks Stoke-on-Trent’s 100th anniversary as a city, so expect even more special programming and a city-wide celebration of its ceramic legacy.
8. Ceramic Brussels (Belgium) – Europe’s First Contemporary Art Fair Devoted Entirely to Ceramics
- Dates: January 23–26, 2025 (VIP Preview: January 22)
- Location: Tour & Taxis Exhibition Centre, Brussels, Belgium
- Festival Highlights:
- Over 60 galleries from around the world showcasing 200+ ceramic artists
- Curated exhibits blending contemporary ceramic art, sculpture, and design
- 2025 spotlight on Norwegian ceramic art and a solo exhibition by acclaimed artist Elizabeth Jaeger
- Talks, guided tours, and the prestigious Ceramic Brussels Art Prize
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Making a bold entrance into the global ceramics scene, Ceramic Brussels is the first major international art fair in Europe dedicated solely to ceramics. Held in the iconic Tour & Taxis venue, this sleek and modern event blends the worlds of fine art and clay, putting ceramics on the same platform as painting and sculpture.
What makes it stand out? The fair brings together top galleries and artists working in ceramics from across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Expect everything from minimalist stoneware to radical installations that challenge how we think about clay as a medium.
In 2025, the fair highlights Norway’s vibrant ceramic scene and features a solo show by Elizabeth Jaeger, whose work bridges ceramics and conceptual art. Whether you’re a collector, curator, or passionate enthusiast, Ceramic Brussels is the place to discover the cutting edge of contemporary ceramic art.
Good to know: This event kicks off the ceramic calendar early in the year—perfect for an inspiring winter escape. And while many works are gallery-grade, there are also emerging talents with more accessible pieces for sale.
9. Ishigaki Island Pottery Festival (Okinawa, Japan) – Island Charm Meets Ceramic Tradition
- Dates: Early December 2025 (exact dates TBA)
- Location: Ishigaki City Hall, Ishigaki Island, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
- Festival Highlights:
- Discover the unique Yachimun (Okinawan pottery) style, known for its bold glazes and rustic charm
- Shop handcrafted pieces from local island potters and artisans
- Enjoy live pottery-making demonstrations and casual meet-the-artist sessions
- Experience Okinawa’s warm island hospitality and rich cultural fusion
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
This festival is a hidden gem for ceramic lovers looking for something off the beaten path. Ishigaki Island, with its subtropical climate and breathtaking natural beauty, offers a relaxed backdrop to explore Okinawa’s vibrant pottery culture. The event is intimate but rich with creativity, showcasing pieces that blend traditional Ryukyu influences with modern interpretations. Visitors can engage directly with local potters, purchase truly one-of-a-kind ceramic works, and even enjoy regional food and music during the event. If you’re planning a winter getaway, this pottery festival is a perfect way to warm up your itinerary—with art, sunshine, and soul.
10. Australian Ceramics Triennale (Fremantle, Australia) – The Southern Hemisphere’s Must-Attend Clay Conference
- Dates: October 2–5, 2025 (main conference), exhibitions may extend through November
- Location: Fremantle Arts Centre & venues across Fremantle, Western Australia
- Festival Highlights:
- World-renowned keynote speakers including sculptor Beth Cavener and ceramics expert Matt Katz
- Live artist demonstrations, masterclasses, and professional development sessions
- Themed exhibitions featuring leading Australian and international ceramic artists
- A warm, inclusive community atmosphere with social events, outdoor firings, and local food
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
Held every three years, the Australian Ceramics Triennale is the country’s largest and most prestigious ceramics event. In 2025, the conference—dubbed “WEDGE”—lands in the historic port city of Fremantle, known for its art scene and coastal charm. It offers an immersive mix of hands-on learning, critical dialogue, and contemporary ceramic exhibitions.
Unlike a commercial pottery fair, this event dives deep into the heart of ceramic practice: exploring clay as both craft and concept. You’ll meet ceramicists, collectors, educators, and enthusiasts from across the globe, all converging to share ideas, stories, and techniques. Whether you’re a practicing potter, a student, or simply a lover of ceramic art, WEDGE 2025 will leave you inspired—and possibly with a few beautiful pieces in your luggage.
Bonus? It’s the perfect excuse to explore Western Australia’s coastline before or after the event.
Final Thoughts: Where Will Clay Take You in 2025?
Whether you’re a practicing ceramic artist, a collector on the hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces, or simply someone who finds joy in the feel of handmade pottery, 2025 is filled with unforgettable opportunities to connect with the global clay community.
From the historic kilns of Icheon and Jingdezhen to the cutting-edge galleries of London, Brussels, and beyond, these festivals offer more than just beautiful ceramics—they’re cultural deep dives, creative playgrounds, and chances to meet the people behind the pieces.
Plan Your Pottery Pilgrimage:
- Looking for hands-on workshops and cultural immersion? Head to Icheon or Arita.
- Want to see boundary-pushing contemporary art? Don’t miss Ceramic Brussels or BCB.
- Craving inspiration, community, and a deeper understanding of the craft? NCECA and the International Ceramics Festival will feel like home.
Whichever path you choose, you’ll come away not just with pottery, but with stories, memories, and creative energy that lasts long after the festival ends.
Ready to map out your ceramic journey?
👉 Bookmark this guide, share it with a fellow pottery lover, and start planning your 2025 clay-filled adventures.
I have always had a love affair with eclectic art. Pottery is just one art form that has satisfied my heart strings.