The Gilroy Garlic Festival drew more than 12,000 people over the three-day event, organizers said, as the festival pushes toward its 50th anniversary in 2028 following its return in 2025 after a yearslong hiatus. Chef Ron Rodriguez sizzles up a batch of garlic and calamari in Gourmet Alley Friday on opening day of the 2026 Gilroy Garlic Festival. Rachel Gallagher (second from right), who was named the Gilroy Garlic Festival Queen, poses with a young girl and the festival’s princesses. Executive Chef Diane Sturla heads up a cooking demonstration of “Shrimp with Garlic Four Ways” July 24 at the Gilroy Garlic Festival. Photo: Tarmo HannulaA woman picks up a glass of wine in a shady tent July 24 at the Gilroy Garlic Festival.