The Island’s biggest and best summer show returned with a vengeance this August, crammed full of all the ingredients necessary for a fantastic family day out. Visitors of all ages flocked to the Garlic Festival field near Newchurch over the weekend of the 14 and 15 August to sample an unrivaled mix of fabulous food, local crafts, arena acts and musical entertainment; with Sunday proving to be the busiest day on record!
Last year the Garlic Festival was cited as “one of Britain's best food festivals” by both The Times and Daily Telegraph newspapers; and indeed many people scheduled their visit to include an indulgent lunchtime treat. In addition to the huge garlic marquee featuring all things garlic, also on the menu was award winning local lamb, beef, pork, poultry, dairy products, fruit, sweetcorn roast, vegetables and juices, to name but a few.
With an even larger main stage this year plus a big screen, the entertainment line-up was as diverse as ever and included “back by popular demand” West County legends The Wurzels who once again went down an absolute storm with packed crowds on Saturday afternoon. Never before have an act fitted the bill and been so immaculately suited to the whole ethos of an event as The Wurzels are to the world-famous Garlic Festival. It was therefore great to see them back for a second year running, bringing the audience to their feet with hits such as “I am a Cider Drinker” and “Combine Harvester.”
It was time to roll back the decades to the 1970’s as The Glitterband took to the stage on the Sunday. Having initially worked as Gary Glitter's backing band, this glam rock band from England began releasing records of their own from 1973 onwards and had chart success with songs including “Goodbye my Love” and “Let’s Get Together Again” both of which received a rousing reception by crowds as the action-packed weekend drew to a close.
All headline acts were supported by some of the top local bands, highlighting the Island's incredible ability to nurture some of the best in UK musical talent. Bands included Lucid, Derek Sandy, LEKIDDO - Lord of The Lobsters! from Sky1's Pineapple Dance Studios and brilliant Ska band "The Specialz." Audience attendance at the smaller stage was equally high as people sat and enjoyed Magic shows, Punch & Judy, Clowns, stilt walkers and entertainers- a whole host of traditional fun for grown-ups and children of all ages. In the main arena this year was the MAD Land Rover Team, Tae Wwon Do martial arts group and the fantastic K9 Freestyle Dog Dance Display which proved to be a massive hit with visitors both young and old.
The Garlic Festival is a truly local show and a real testament to everything the Island has to offer. Attendance to the show is instrumental in providing support for many Island charities, clubs and groups all of who work hard and pull together year-on-year to make the event a huge success.