The streets of Meeniyan will once again become rich with the aroma of garlic for the town’s third annual garlic festival.
Garlic lovers will be encouraged to give their taste buds a treat with non-traditional garlic recipes such as garlic flavoured ice creams and milk shakes, beer and even smoked garlic vodka.
Festival organiser and Mirboo garlic grower David Jones expects between 8000 and 10,000 people to flock to the town to enjoy fine food, expert tips, cooking shows, live music and kids’ entertainment.
“This festival promotes Gippsland as a premier garlic growing region. Our climate is conducive to growing award-winning garlic and there are an increasing number of growers jumping on board,” he said.
Mr Jones said this year festival attendees could learn how to make their own garlic oil, aioli, smoked and black fermented garlic, and garlic plaiting.
The Meeniyan Hall will host the garlic institute where experts will share their tips with budding growers about how to start their own commercial crops and the product’s naturopathic benefits.
Mr Jones said the festival would be a boon for the town and the entire community would get involved.
“Meeniyan was always known as being the turn-off point to get to Wilson’s Prom but now it’s a destination in its own right because of its arts, produce and live music,” Mr Jones said.
“The festival gives more people reason to stop and it’s has been embraced by the town, it provides a boost for local businesses and community groups.”
The Meeniyan Garlic Festival will be at the Meeniyan Recreation Reserve on February 16. Tickets are $10 for adults and kids are free, dogs are welcome.
For more information, visit meeniyangarlicfestival.com.au/.
