Over the long weekend, Easton celebrated the 20th anniversary of Easton Garlic Fest.

Located in Easton, Pennsylvania, over one hundred vendors participate in selling their garlic related products each year. This includes everything from hot food to beverages to desserts. On top of the unique variations of garlic-based foods, the festival also hosts cooking competitions and a section with activities for children. 

Vendors were providing free samples of wacky garlic creations. I was lucky enough to try garlic flavored ice cream, which ended up having a salty, coffee taste with hints of garlic. Although I was hesitant about this sample, when I saw the long line of people waiting for it, I knew it was going to be good. Although I was able to try other samples such as garlic cheese and pickles, nothing else compared to the sweet and creamy ice cream. 

Purchase wise, the best was a loaf of garlic bread, which I used to dip into soup and kept nicely for a few days.  

ASL teacher Ms. Kara Trunk also attended and has been going for the past few years. She noticed some changes from previous years.

 “It was very crowded and parking was terrible,” said Trunk. “I had garlic parmesan truffle fries from the Flying V Poutinerie, which was phenomenal. I also had a deep fried cupcake, which I have never had before. There were also a lot of dogs, which I enjoyed.”

Staff member Ms. DeWire also paid a visit to garlic fest and compared this festival to last year’s. 

“The food was just as good, just less vendors,” said DeWire. “It’s not necessarily a bad thing, just less tables set up.”

Throughout my years of attending this festival, I have stuck to certain foods. I was disappointed this year, as it felt smaller than previous years. Many vendors were missing and there were a lot of empty spaces. For instance, each year my nose is dragged to garlic potato soup. Unfortunately, this year my nose was not traveling toward the soup, and that tradition was broken as that stand was not there.  

Although there were fewer vendors, this year seemed to be significantly more crowded. Saturday’s weather was not looking promising, so many people were hesitant to go, which led to more people attending on Sunday.

This event goes on rain or shine, and thousands of people visit the Easton area for this amazing event. 

If you missed Garlic Fest’s 20th anniversary, don’t worry. Easton Center Square will be hosting Bacon Fest on Nov. 4 and 5.