Did you know that Castroville, California is known as the "Artichoke Center of the World?" Or how about that in 1948 actress Marilyn Monroe was honored as California’s first Artichoke Queen?

These titillating facts, in addition to a plethora of scrumptious artichoke-inspired dishes, are just the beginning of what awaits you at the 62nd annual Artichoke Festival.

Billed as “the biggest veggie event on the California Central Coast,” the annual Artichoke Festival will be celebrating its 62nd anniversary on June 11-12, 2022.

Held at the historic Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey, the festival celebrates the long-standing tradition of artichoke farming in the town of Castroville. The first festival was held in 1959, and since that time has grown into a major event attracting people from all over the state.

Grilled, steamed, fried...

... there are so many ways to prepare delicious artichokes.

Since a large number of artichokes are grown in Castroville, it has earned the moniker the “Artichoke Center of the World.”

These beautiful, olive-hued vegetables will also be used to create amazing burritos, lumpia, sausages, and believe it or not – desserts too!

Vendors selling a wide assortment of food items will be on hand.

Arts and crafts vendors will be selling their wares as well. Other festival activities include a family fun run for all ages, artichoke eating contests, and a farmer’s market, just to name a few.

Wine lovers will enjoy the wide array of vintages offered by numerous boutique California wineries.

Vintners will be on hand to offer samples, answer questions, and sell some of their best varieties. There will also be a raffle, the winner taking home a barrel full of wine to enjoy at home with family and friends. For couples 21 years and older, there is an option to purchase a special "It’s a Date" Pass that includes two (2) general admission tickets and two (2) wine tasting passes.

In addition to eating all of the delicious artichoke creations, you can learn how to make them at home.

A wide array of celebrity chefs will be performing special demos and sharing their secrets for preparing some of the best artichoke dishes.

The main festival stage will feature the musical stylings of over a half dozen local bands.

As at any festival with live entertainment, dancing is part of the fun!

Kick off your shoes, throw your head back, and vibe to the music!

Are you ready for some great festival fun? Then grab your family and friends, ready your tastebuds, and get your artichoke groove on at the annual Artichoke Festival!

Have you been to the Artichoke Festival? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there.

Are you a festival foodie? Then check out these 12 Delicious Food Festivals in Northern California.