Gilroy Garlic Festival

About

The Gilroy Garlic Festival was a renowned annual event celebrating garlic in all its forms. Held in Gilroy, California, it showcased a wide variety of garlic-infused dishes, live music, and arts and crafts. The festival was a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across the nation and earning Gilroy the title of "Garlic Capital of the World." It featured a vibrant Gourmet Alley where chefs prepared iconic garlic dishes, including calamari and pasta. The festival, which ran from 1979 to 2019, was a significant fundraiser for local charities and schools. Despite its cancellation in 2020 and a drive-through version in 2021, the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association continues to host smaller events. The festival's legacy includes promoting community spirit and celebrating garlic's culinary versatility. It was a beloved event that combined food, fun, and philanthropy, making it a cherished part of Gilroy's cultural identity.