Garlic Town USA hits Bennington September 5
BENNINGTON-Garlic Town USA returns to downtown Bennington on Saturday, September 5, with new vendors, expanded programming, a reimagined chef demonstration tent, and a full day of live entertainment.
Formerly known as the “Garlic Fest,” the annual festival has grown into one of Vermont’s largest agricultural celebrations, drawing visitors from across the country to downtown Bennington each Labor Day weekend. Produced by the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Garlic Town USA showcases local agriculture, food, music, artisans, and community organizations while celebrating all things garlic.
New this year is an expanded culinary experience, led by demonstration captain Mikayla Fissette, bringing new programming to one of the festival’s most popular attractions. Fissette, of Green Mountain Home Health & Hospice, has developed a lineup designed to inspire home cooks, gardeners, and garlic enthusiasts alike.
The demonstration schedule includes garlic braiding with Michelle Scutt of Harmony Acres Garlic Farm, home & garden composting 101 with the Bennington County Solid Waste Alliance, black garlic magic with Tony of Rolling Rock Farm, healthy eating with garlic with Dr. Jenn, and the festival’s fan-favorite garlic ice cream and garlic-infused gelato sampling demonstration.
Beyond the culinary stage, organizers have expanded entertainment throughout the festival grounds with continuous live music featuring regional performers spanning Americana, rhythm and blues, bluegrass, and surf rock. Garlic Town USA will also feature more than 120 curated vendors and small businesses, specialty food trucks, more than 50 tasting opportunities, free children’s activities, downtown tractor rides, artisan shopping, and family entertainment throughout the day. There is free parking with shuttle service available.
The festival continues its commitment to sustainability as a near-zero-waste event, offering composting and recycling stations throughout the grounds. More than 100 volunteers will welcome guests and help operate the event. Garlic Town USA will be held rain or shine. Pets, large coolers, smoking, and outside alcohol are not permitted on festival grounds. Discounted advanced tickets, event information, and frequently asked questions are available at www.GarlicTownUSA.com. Festival updates can also be found on Facebook and Instagram at @GarlicTownUSA.
