Gilroy Garlic Festival draws thousands of visitors in California

The Gilroy Garlic Festival, held each summer in Gilroy, California, celebrates the region’s garlic heritage. First organized in 1979, the three‑day event features garlic‑infused foods such as garlic ice cream, bread, pasta and seafood, as well as concerts, craft markets and cooking competitions.

The festival attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, turning the city into a hub of culinary and cultural activity. In 2026 the Gilroy Garlic Queen Pageant will return, offering scholarships to its winners and adding another traditional element to the celebration.