‘People are so happy’: Perth Garlic Festival to make comeback this summer

After a one-year pause, which organizers thought would officially mark the end of a successful 25 year run, the Perth Garlic Festival is making its return this summer.

According to festival organizers, both the community and vendors couldn’t be happier to see the beloved local tradition make a comeback.

Hosted again by the local Lions Club, the 27th annual Garlic Festival will take place on Aug. 8 and 9, 2026, marking a fresh chapter for the long-running event that has drawn garlic lovers from across the region for more than two decades.

“It started 27 years ago but last year it was cancelled,” Anne Bell, chair of the Garlic Festival told Lanarkist. “The executives at that time felt they had been doing it for 25 years and were tired. They figured that was a good time to stop.”

But for Bell, and many in the community, the festival’s legacy didn’t feel finished.

“First of all, it was a good money-maker for the club,” Bell explained. “The community missed it, as well as the vendors. I’ve been in touch with many of the vendors this past year and they were wishing it would come back.”

An initial effort to revive the festival last year fell short, but this year, planning began early and the response from vendors has been strong. Bell estimates approximately 60 vendors will participate in 2026, with 40 already confirmed.

For those who have never attended, Bell described the festival as an outdoor celebration of all things garlic — from food to crafts — combined with live music and family-friendly activities. Visitors can expect a variety of food vendors offering garlic-inspired dishes, unique craft displays, and a beer tent for refreshments.

The event will once again be held at the Perth Fair Grounds, where attendees can pay admission at the gate. Beyond the food and festivities, the Garlic Festival also plays an important role as a key fundraising event for the Lions Club. The proceeds will be directed back into the larger community.

“It goes back into the community to help those most in need,” Bell told Lanarkist, noting that the Perth & Smith Falls General Hospital will be among the club’s major beneficiaries this year.

The festival has also proven to be an economic boost for the broader area. Bell shared that participating merchants and local businesses alike have expressed excitement about its return.

“It not only brings people to the fair grounds where it’s held, but people stay in the area. They eat in the area, shop in the area too” she said. “They come from far and wide.”

As word spreads online about the festival’s return, Bell says the enthusiasm she’s seen has been unmistakable.

“Everybody just loves it. People are so happy that it’s coming back.”