By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine.
From the moment you arrive at Garlic Town USA, you feel the warmth of Vermont’s hospitality. Whether you’re arriving by bus, walking from one of the local downtown inns, or just taking in the crisp air as you stroll to the festival grounds, there’s an undeniable sense of community that greets you. It’s in the smile of the volunteer who checks your ticket, the aroma of garlic that fills the air, and the joyful energy that surrounds this beloved event. And it’s been this way for 30 years.
The Birth of a Southern Vermont Tradition
It all started in 1995 in Wilmington, Vermont, when co-founders Steve Wrathall and Joy Powell set the foundation for what would become one of the most iconic food-centered festivals in New England. The Southern Vermont Garlic & Herb Festival began as a small, intimate gathering that drew local farmers, herb growers, and food lovers from the surrounding areas. But what started as a modest community celebration quickly became a regional favorite.
In 2008, as the festival continued to grow in popularity, it was sold to the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce. For more than a decade, it remained known as the Southern Vermont Garlic & Herb Festival—affectionately called “Garlic Fest”—drawing thousands of visitors to Bennington each year. In 2020, the event underwent its biggest transformation yet, rebranding as “Garlic Town USA” and ushering in a new chapter that built on its rich history while adding a fresh, downtown-focused experience.
Celebrating 30 Years of Garlic, Community, and Vermont Spirit
Fast forward to 2025, and Garlic Town USA is celebrating its 30th anniversary. But it’s not just about the garlic—this festival is a living testament to the dedication of over 100 local volunteers who pour their hearts and souls into making this event truly special. These volunteers, who are the backbone of the festival, are the first faces you see when you arrive, offering a warm welcome and a genuine desire to ensure you have the best festival experience possible.
“Over 100 volunteers make this event happen, and they do it because they love Bennington, they love Garlic Town, and they want everyone to feel the same way,” says Mikaela Lewis, the event designer and manager for the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “The moment you step onto the grounds, you’ll feel the care and attention from these volunteers who make the festival so memorable.”
From helping you buy your ticket to guiding you to a favorite vendor you may be looking for, the volunteers are there every step of the way. It’s this hospitality that makes Garlic Town USA stand out from other festivals. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, you’re treated like family. “It’s Vermont at its best,” says Lewis. “Everyone here just wants to make sure you have an amazing experience, you leave with a smile on your face, and you’re eager to come back next year.”
A Food Lover’s Paradise
For foodies, Garlic Town USA is an absolute haven. Vermont is known for its rich agricultural heritage, and this festival showcases the very best the state has to offer. Imagine a farmers’ market times a million, where you can taste before you buy and discover new culinary trends that will inspire your cooking for the rest of the year.
With over 100 curated vendors, you’ll find everything from fresh garlic-infused jams and pickled produce to Vermont-made cheeses and artisanal breads. Whether you’re stocking your pantry or looking for the perfect gift, you’ll find ingredients that elevate every recipe and every meal. Local farmers and food makers pour their passion into their products, and the result is a stunning array of items that celebrate Vermont’s bountiful harvests.
A Festival for the Whole Family
Garlic Town USA isn’t just about the garlic—it’s about bringing people together to celebrate food, community, and fun. For families, the festival offers a wide range of activities. Kids can enjoy themed art projects, engage with magicians, or take part in tractor wagon rides through the downtown area. There are even special activities designed to introduce them to the world of garlic, with hands-on experiences that make learning about food and farming both fun and educational.
The festival also features chef demonstrations throughout the day, where local chefs and food experts share their tips on everything from cooking with garlic to creating delicious garlic-infused desserts. And of course, no festival would be complete without garlic ice cream—an event favorite that’s always sure to spark lively conversations and curious taste buds.
More Than Just Food: A True Vermont Experience
Garlic Town USA is an immersive experience for all the senses. With live music playing throughout the day, you can tap your feet to local bands while savoring bites from food trucks offering everything from international dishes to classic fair food, all with a garlic twist. The food trucks are more than just vendors—they’re a celebration of regional culinary diversity, offering a fusion of flavors that reflect the creativity of the state’s chefs and food artisans.
For those with a taste for spirits, the cocktail and beer tents are the place to be. Featuring Vermont craft beers and garlic-themed cocktails, these tents offer a chance to relax and enjoy the festival while sampling some of the best drinks the state has to offer.
And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a special appearance by Miss Vermont or Miss South Vermont, or rub elbows with some of Vermont’s most influential foodies and bloggers. It’s all part of the fun at Garlic Town USA!
A Legacy of Sustainability
In addition to the rich culinary offerings, Garlic Town USA is committed to sustainability. The event has long been a leader in eco-friendly practices, and 2024 saw the festival save over 4,000 pounds of food waste and garbage from being sent to the landfill, turning it into rich compost instead. As part of its zero-waste event efforts, Garlic Town USA continues to find ways to minimize its environmental impact, offering hands-on eco-friendly experiences and activities for all ages.
“We want to make sure that Garlic Town is not only fun, but also educational,” says Lewis. “It’s important to us that people leave not only with full bellies but with a greater appreciation for sustainability and the impact we all can have on our environment.”
Looking Ahead: A Celebration of Garlic and Community
As Garlic Town USA celebrates its 30th anniversary, there’s much to look forward to. With online tickets going live on May 1st, the festival promises an even bigger celebration in 2025 with limited edition merchandise, giveaways, and a special lineup of entertainment. Long-time vendors will be highlighted, and the festival will continue to grow, bringing even more people together to enjoy the magic of garlic and Vermont’s incredible food culture.
Come for the garlic, stay for the community.
So whether you’re a garlic connoisseur or a first-time visitor, Garlic Town USA is the place to be this summer. From the smiling faces of over 100 volunteers to the rich, flavorful dishes and the unique sense of Vermont hospitality, Garlic Town USA is an experience you won’t forget.
Buy your ticket early and check all the updates and 30th anniversary journey by following Garlic Town USA on social media and on GarlicTownUSA.com.
