Move Over, Pyrex: The Rustic CorningWare Pattern That's A Coveted Thrift Find

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

In the middle of the 20th century, the folks at Corning Glass Works were busy. They had a hit on their hands with Pyrex opalware, those colorful bowls and casserole sets collectors still hope to find today. They also developed new materials, like Pyroceram, a glass-ceramic composite that would go on to form the basis of CorningWare, which, like its sister brand Pyrex, produced casserole dishes and many other items. Similar to Pyrex, vintage CorningWare is highly collectible.

One popular popular pattern that collectors love to find in thrift stores is Country Festival. Country Festival made its debut in 1975 at a time when an interest in all things country was popular. Resembling a Pennsylvania Dutch hex sign, the pattern features two bright blue birds facing each other with a red and orange tulip between them. The pair are surrounded by a few more flowers and stems.

With its bright colors and whimsical design, Country Festival is in-demand with collectors today. CorningWare's square, covered casseroles in Country Festival are always a popular find, but the more rare and sought after pieces, like the coffee pot or skillet are definitely a thrill to come across.

A few years before CorningWare introduced Country Festival, Pyrex rolled out its own pattern full of country charm, Friendship. Friendship has a lot in common with Country Festival. Both feature cute birds and flowers, and both are a nod to Pennsylvania Dutch country style. But there are big differences, starting with the design. Country Festival's birds are blue, notably different from Friendship's red birds.

The material is also markedly different. Country Festival is printed on CorningWare's signature Pyroceram, a sturdy white glass-ceramic that can go in the oven, freezer, and on the stovetop, which is why the pattern appears not just on dishware but on skillets and saucepans. Certain pieces were sold with clip-on, detachable handles, making it easy to pick up a casserole from the stove and slide it into the oven, or onto the table.

If you spot the Country Festival pattern at your local thrift store, pay close attention to the item's condition and any accessories available with it. Chips or cracks diminish the cookware's value and make it less safe to use for cooking. Dishes and pans with lids are worth more than those without, as they're more functional. You can use a casserole with lid to store your leftovers, after all. Prices for Country Festival vary widely, with a single, small casserole going for $20 or a complete set selling nearly $400.