The Gilroy Garlic Festival is a community-centered food and entertainment event celebrating garlic, local hospitality, and a tradition dating back to 1979. Held at the Hecker Pass Outdoor Events Center in Gilroy, California, the festival brings together local residents and visitors for a lively weekend of food, music, and family activities. Its signature Gourmet Alley features the famous Pyro Chefs cooking garlic-laced scampi and calamari in giant skillets, alongside a broad selection of garlic-inspired fare, including pepper steak sandwiches, garlic fries, and garlic ice cream.

Guests can also enjoy live performances by local and regional acts, chef demonstrations, and arts and crafts. The festival is hosted by volunteers, whose work supports their chosen charities. Since its founding, the event has raised millions of dollars for local schools and nonprofit organizations, making community benefit central to its identity.

After welcoming 12,000 attendees in July 2026, the festival plans to return in 2027. Organizers invite food vendors, performers, sponsors, volunteers, and media to take part in future events