Last Updated on June 9, 2024
Summer is the perfect time to hit the road and explore the vibrant food scene across North America. From coast to coast, culinary festivals celebrate local flavors, creative dishes, and the joy of eating in the great outdoors.
In this article, we survey five of the most mouth-watering summer festivals, and give you tips on how to pack for your gastronomical road trip, including packing the latest in women’s merino clothes and men’s travel fashion.
Here’s your itinerary!
Taste of Chicago – Chicago, Illinois
The Taste of Chicago is the world’s largest food festival, held annually in July in Grant Park. This iconic event features a diverse array of dishes from Chicago’s renowned culinary scene, including deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and ethnic specialties. Live music, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities add to the festive atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a summer road trip.
Gilroy Garlic Festival – Gilroy, California
For garlic lovers, the Gilroy Garlic Festival is a must-visit summer event. Held in July in the “Garlic Capital of the World,” this three-day festival celebrates all things garlic with cooking competitions, gourmet tastings, and garlic-themed crafts. Sample garlic-infused dishes like garlic shrimp and garlic ice cream, and enjoy live entertainment in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
Festival Gourmet International – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Escape to Puerto Vallarta in November for the Festival Gourmet International, a culinary extravaganza celebrating Mexican cuisine and international flavors. This week-long event features gourmet dinners, wine tastings, and cooking classes hosted by world-renowned chefs and local culinary talents. With its stunning coastal setting and delicious cuisine, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect summer road trip destination for foodies – provided your car can push past the southern border!
Richmond Night Market – Richmond, British Columbia, Canada
Experience a culinary adventure under the stars at the Richmond Night Market, held during the summer months just outside Vancouver, Canada. This vibrant night market is renowned for its diverse array of Asian street food, creative snacks, and unique desserts, from mouth-watering skewers and dumplings to colorful bubble tea and exotic treats.
Browse through rows of vendors offering a mix of traditional and innovative dishes, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with live performances, cultural displays, and shopping stalls.
Maine Lobster Festival – Rockland, Maine
Indulge in fresh seafood at the Maine Lobster Festival, held each August in the coastal town of Rockland. This iconic event celebrates Maine’s most famous export with a feast of lobster rolls, lobster dinners, and lobster-inspired dishes. Enjoy live music, arts and crafts vendors, and the scenic beauty of Maine’s rugged coastline, making it a quintessential summer road trip destination.
Planning Your Summer Food Festival Road Trip
When planning your summer road trip to these food festivals, be sure to check event dates and book accommodations in advance, as these events can draw large crowds.
Pack comfortable clothing and sunscreen for outdoor activities. Consider wearing versatile merino wool clothing, which keeps you cool in the heat and warm during cooler evenings; as a bonus, Merino clothes are also odor-resistant, keeping you fresh between food festival stops.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack your appetite. With delicious food, live entertainment, and vibrant atmospheres, these summer festivals are sure to make your road trip memorable.