Fiesta Dinnerware

Is it the bright, mix and match colors? Or the timeless yet nostalgic art deco design? Did you first fall in love with an old pitcher at a flea market, or with a gleaming new teapot at a department store? Are you passionate about one particular color or do you fall into "the more the merrier" camp? Avid fans of Fiesta have been collecting it for over six decades, making it one of the most popular china patterns in the world. One of the very best features of Fiestaware is the opportunity to personalize your addiction, um, collection.

The History of Fiesta Dinnerware

What does Shakespeare have to do with Fiestaware? It all started in 1871, when Homer Laughlin and his brother Shakespeare set up a two-kiln pottery in East Liverpool, on the banks of the Ohio River. It was one of the first whiteware plants in the United States. Subsequently the company was bought by the Aaron and Wells families who have operated it since 1897. In 1907 a new plant, with 30 kilns was built, officially relocating the company across the river to Newell, West Virginia, where it remains to this day.

Though the computerized kilns, state of the art production facilities, and decorating equipment that produce it are unmistakably modern, the allure of Fiesta dinnerware is definitely in its vintage character. The turning point of the company's artistic focus was in 1927, when noted ceramist Frederick Hurton Rhead joined the team. His design vision culminated in the the 1936 introduction of Fiesta, which continues to be Homer Laughlin's best-selling line and one of the most collected china patterns in the world.

As originally designed, the line featured art deco styling and bold, bright colors. The line was discontinued in 1973 but brought back in 1986 with new contemporary colors to mark its 50th anniversary. Its reintroduction as a high-fire, fully vitrified lead-free product was enthusiastically greeted by both the food service industry and individual consumers.

Fiesta's styling complements a wide range of décors. The bold colors complement one another as well as a wide range of interior palettes. Over 50 items in the line provide maximum service options and ensure consistent tabletop styling. The plate's coupe shape allows maximum food plating surface; sculpted concentric rings highlight and frame the food presentation. Alpha Alumina added to the body enhances durability and provides superior heat retention.

If you are looking for pieces of Fiesta dinnerware in colors not listed below that have been discontinued, check out our page for the color you are looking for. A complete list of all colors produced is available at Discontinued & Current Fiesta Dinnerware Colors. Over the years patterns have been applied to varying colors of Fiesta and those we have identified are available at Discontinued & Current Fiesta Patterned Dinnerware.