Every year, as summer gives way to autumn, something unmistakable fills the air in Revelstoke. It’s not the crisp mountain air or the scent of fallen leaves—it’s garlic. For one day in September, Queen Elizabeth Park transforms into a gathering place for farmers, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys the bite of a good, homegrown clove. The Revelstoke Garlic Festival started as a simple sale but has become one of the town’s most popular community events. It brings people together over food, live music, and a commitment to local agriculture.
This event highlights more than just the strong, pungent bulbs that define it. It’s about sustainable farming, creative cooking, and a shared appreciation for locally grown ingredients. People come to buy garlic, taste food made with it, and learn more about how to grow and cook with it. It’s an event where farmers meet home cooks, musicians keep the energy up, and everyone leaves with something to talk about—along with a bag of garlic to take home.
A Humble Beginning
The Revelstoke Garlic Festival started in 2013 when farmers Sarah Harper and Stu Smith, owners of Track Street Growers, found themselves with excess garlic. Rather than letting it go to waste, they decided to hold a small sale, inviting the local community to come and buy directly from them. Around 200 people showed up that first year, surprising everyone involved.
It didn’t take long for the event to grow. Within a few years, attendance had climbed to over 1,200, and the festival had expanded beyond just selling garlic. More vendors arrived, food trucks began serving garlic-infused dishes, and live music became a central part of the experience. In 2023, Harper and Smith handed the reins to the Revelstoke Local Food Initiative (LFI) to ensure the event could continue to grow sustainably. Over 2,500 people attended that year, and the festival raised more than $7,000 to support community food programs.
What to Expect
Local Garlic in Many Varieties
There is no shortage of options for those who come to stock up. Farmers sell everything from softneck and hardneck garlic to rare and specialty varieties. Shoppers can find bulbs suited for long-term storage, garlic with bold or mild flavours, and even black garlic, which is fermented for a unique, sweet taste. Many vendors offer advice on growing, storing, and using garlic, making it easy to leave with both a bag of bulbs and a few new ideas.
Food That Bites Back
Food vendors make the most of the festival’s star ingredient, incorporating garlic into everything from roasted meats to fresh bread. Expect garlic fries, garlic-stuffed sausages, and pasta dishes with extra garlic flavour. Some vendors push boundaries with unique options like garlic ice cream and garlic chocolate. Those who want to cook at home can pick up infused oils, garlic spreads, and seasoning blends.
Live Music and Games
Music plays throughout the event, creating a lively atmosphere. Local bands take the stage, performing folk, rock, and blues. In addition to the music, there are contests and games for all ages. The most talked-about event is Chicken Bingo, where participants place bets on where a chicken will leave its mark. It’s a mix of luck and humour that always draws a crowd.
Learning and Growing
The festival isn’t just about eating. Attendees can take part in workshops on garlic farming, pickling, and cooking techniques. Gardening experts share tips on soil preparation, harvesting, and preserving garlic for winter use. Cooking demonstrations show how to make the most of this ingredient in everyday meals, whether roasting it whole, turning it into a spread, or using it in sauces.
Supporting Local Agriculture
The festival is more than a food event. It’s a fundraiser for the Revelstoke Local Food Initiative, which supports community gardens, food security programs, and education about sustainable farming. People contribute to these efforts by attending, helping to strengthen local food systems and keep small-scale agriculture alive in the region.
To reduce environmental impact, organizers encourage attendees to bike or walk to the event rather than drive. The festival also asks that pets stay home, allowing for a more relaxed experience for everyone.
More Than Just Garlic
The Revelstoke Garlic Festival has grown from a small gathering into a major annual event. Still, it has kept its focus on community and sustainability. People come to buy garlic, taste new dishes, and enjoy the music and games. They leave with a greater appreciation for local food and farming.
This year’s festival is set for September 14, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Queen Elizabeth Park. It’s a chance to stock up on the best garlic in the region, eat something unexpected, and take part in an event that supports local growers. Anyone who appreciates strong flavours and good company won’t want to miss it.
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