Isle of Wight Garlic Festival facts for kids
The Garlic Festival is a fundraising event that is held annually on the Isle of Wight, and raises money for the booming Garlic industry on the island, as well as fundraising for other agricultural farms on the island.
History
The Garlic Festival has been held every year since 1983, except 2020 when officials cited the COVID-19 pandemic that caused its cancellation. From 1985 to 2006, the Newchurch Parish Sports & Community Association organised the annual Garlic Festival, achieving their major fund raising aims. It is now hosted by The Garlic Festival Ltd. It has recently drawn 20,000 visitors a year.
Throughout this time the festival has been organised by a succession of dedicated volunteers. A Sports Pavilion, sports field, dual-use Community Hall, recreation ground and numerous grants to Parish Organisations are testament to their success and many local organisations benefit still.
With over 250 stallholders selling such cuisine as garlic beer, garlic seafood and garlic ice cream as well as a wealth of other locally produced delicacies. The centre of attention is the Garlic Marquee featuring the Isle of Wight's Golden Clove, which is found in abundance, including the popular oak-smoked variety. The popular theatre kitchen features demo's and presentations.
Further entertainment includes live music from artists such as The Wurzels, Chas n Dave, Alvin Stardust, Glitter Band, Foundations, Chesney Hawkes, Kiki Dee, Jim Diamond and many local bands and displays from mountain bike daredevils, Above and Beyond, Vnaders Big Wheel and Bob Hogg's racing sheep . There is also a huge variety of family attractions on offer including arena events a fun fair and roving acts.
