The annual South Cariboo Garlic Festival is sprouting even higher this year, according to its organizers.
It may not have been Teresa Wager’s main goal when she took the reins as an organizer for the South Cariboo Garlic Festival, but each year it has been expanding, and she’s saying this year is expected to grow even more.
“This year, we have 179 vendor spaces taken up. We’re at full capacity,” says Wager. “We still have a huge waiting list of vendors trying to get in right now. But I have measured and measured, and I think we’re completely maxed out.”
Now in her third year as one of the organizers for the South Cariboo Garlic Festival, Wager and her team have grown the festival each year. Last year, the Festival weekend hit a new attendance record of 7,400 people. This year, Wager is expecting to reach around 8,000 [weather permitting].
There are more bouncy castles, and they have expanded to have their own designated area.
After seeing long line-ups at food trucks last year, there are going to be 13 food trucks, all with garlic themes, on the grounds. With over 40 different types of garlic bulbs, spices, rubs, and food to choose from. Wager says this year there is even garlic ice cream and garlic cider.
The South Cariboo Idol winners will be performing live on both days of the festival, too.
“I want people from anywhere and everywhere to come and stay here all day and enjoy the day. Start in the morning, and enjoy the festivities.”
Making its return from its inaugural year last year is the Roughneck Zone, which Wager says “was incredible and loved” by those who attended. The chainsaw carvings and art will also be back.
“ You know, it wasn’t my goal to grow it. I wanted to kind of keep it the same, but we had so many exciting new vendors that came forward that I just couldn’t pass up on them. I just thought ‘people should get to see that’… I’m so grateful that they applied to the festival, we have so many artistic and amazing artists and growers, and farmers in this community, and it’s such a showcase for them.”
The South Cariboo Garlic Festival will be taking place on Saturday, August 23, and Sunday, August 24.
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