California has a whole festival built around garlic! The Gilroy Garlic Festival returns July 24 to 26, 2026 in Gilroy, California. Gilroy is known as the Garlic Capital of the World, so this is the city's signature food event. Expect garlicky dishes, live entertainment, family fun, and a revived community festival atmosphere. The 2026 edition takes place at Hecker Pass Outdoor Events Center, near Gilroy Gardens, with limited tickets.