The Stratford Kiwanis Club is gearing up for its fifteenth annual Garlic Festival, a unique event celebrating the richness and flavour of Ontario garlic.
"We've been going strong since 2007, with just a couple of breaks for COVID-19," shared Bonnie Richardson, Chair of the Stratford Kiwanis Garlic Festival. "It started as a collaboration between our Kiwanis Club and a renowned local garlic grower. It's very homegrown."
Back in the day, only about 600 acres of garlic were cultivated in Ontario. The scarcity made it hard for locals to purchase fresh garlic, even as its popularity as a condiment soared.
"Our festival and others like it have played a significant role in promoting this now-fundamental ingredient," explained Richardson. "It's an interesting dance of supply and demand. Did our events drive the demand, or were we merely meeting an already existing appetite? It's hard to say."
Championing Local Produce
The Ontario Garlic and Artisan Market will once again be a cornerstone of the festival. Over the years, it has showcased garlic growers from all over Ontario, with regulars like Brant County Garlic and Augusts Harvest Inc. returning for their fifteenth year.
The festival promises a plethora of garlic forms and products, ranging from fresh garlic bulbs, braids, and powders to garlic-flavoured jams, jellies, pickles, sauces and even butter tarts. Not to be missed are specialties such as 'Canada’s best black garlic' from Boars Rock Farm and garlic-infused olive oil by Braemar Hills Farm.
A Fresh Twist
The festival has evolved over the years to include more than just garlic.
"At its core, it remains a garlic festival, but we've expanded to incorporate a variety of unique products, from lavender to cheeses and even alcoholic beverages," Richardson said.
This expansion provides smaller growers and producers an opportunity to showcase their products and gain exposure.
Attendees can anticipate a colourful array of fall plants from Sebringville Garden Centre, fresh produce from Sheldon’s Berries, 'raw honey' from Huckleberry Hives, lavender products from The Deep Purple Lavender Farm, and much more. Families can indulge in garlic sausages from the Kiwanis Booth and vegetarian soup and sandwich options at the Snapping Turtle Roasters.
Tastings and Pairings
Continuing the tradition started in 2017, the festival will feature Tastings and Pairings sessions. These 45-minute programs will introduce visitors to delightful combinations such as Rheo Thompson Candies with spirits from Junction 56 Distillery and bison from Blanbrook Bison Farm paired with Ontario West Coast wines.
Sessions will be held on Saturday from 11:30 a.m., with tickets priced at $10 available online.
Educational and Entertainment Highlights
Set at the Stratford Rotary Complex, the festival is spacious, accommodating a variety of vendors without feeling crowded. The venue features a presentation stage, hosting talks from chefs and experts, and a separate area dedicated to tastings.
Festival goers are in for a treat with cooking demonstrations by local celebrities, educational sessions, and live entertainment. Noteworthy appearances include Andrew Tutt of Tutt’s Eatery and Andrew Mavor from Stratford District Secondary School. Rick Francis will also grace the Café Stage, serenading attendees with his smooth jazz, folk, and soft rock melodies.
A Commitment to the Community
Having successfully resumed the festival in 2022 post-COVID-19 hiatus, the Kiwanis Club continues to use the event's proceeds to support local initiatives. This year, they plan to aid Bedford School's playground, L’Arche Stratford, and Camp Bimini in their respective community endeavours.
"While the festival is just one of the Kiwanis Club's fundraising ventures, we typically raise $15,000 to $18,000 from this event," said Richardson.
The festival has an entry fee of $10 for guests, but after 2 p.m. on both days, there is a discounted rate where two people can enter for $10. Children under 14 are admitted free of charge. Purchase your tickets online today