This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Gilroy Garlic Festival. What started out as a simple press junket designed to bring some publicity to the southernmost city in Santa Clara County, has become one of California's and the country's largest food festivals. The festival has attracted over 3 million people and has raised over $8 million dollars for local charities and non profits during its lifetime.
The 2008 edition of the Garlic Festival will continue the celebration of the versatility and popularity of the 'stinking rose'. Ever had a taste of garlic ice cream? Now is your chance. Gourmet Alley is the home to all the garlic infused dishes for sample including calamari, scampi, stuffed peppers, and the ever popular garlic bread and garlic fries. There are cooking contests and three stages of live entertainment.
The Gilroy Garlic Festival takes place July 25th-27th from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Tickets are only $12 for adults and $6 for children and seniors. The admission price includes parking, musical entertainment, cooking demonstrations, and a children's area. Festival guests purchase food and beverages from the vendors. Prices range from $2 to $10 depending on the item, which is a full-size serving, not a sample. The festival is run by the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association, a non-profit organization intended to support non-profit groups and projects in Gilroy.