Garlic Festival In Fresno Not Meant To Rival Gilroy’s: Report

GILROY, CA — Gilroy has long been known for its Garlic Festival. Now, Fresno has decided to host one of their own, but the organizers insist that they don’t want a rivalry, Gilroy Dispatch reported.

“It’s very important to us that the people of Gilroy not think we are trying to take something from them or belittle them for the great work they do and have done,” National Food Festivals CEO Peter DeYoung told Gilroy Dispatch.

DeYoung said he wants the new National Garlic Festival to celebrate all things garlic and told Gilroy Dispatch the highlights include more than 300 foods seasoned with garlic, multiple showcases, and a carnival. He added that his team has a desire to collaborate with the Gilroy Garlic Industry.

“We are Gilroy’s biggest fan,” he said. “We share the same goals, to promote California garlic. We have enormous admiration for their festival and hope that it returns.”

Fresno’s festival is set for May 13-15 at the Fresno Fairgrounds. Read more about the new Fresno festival from the Gilroy Dispatch here.