Mohawk Valley Garlic & Herb Festival Set to Sizzle in Little Falls on September 13

By Dave Warner

Little Falls, NY – The aroma of fresh garlic and herbs is already wafting through the air in anticipation as the Mohawk Valley Garlic & Herb Festival gears up for its 22nd annual celebration. Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 13, 2025, when Historic Canal Place in Little Falls transforms into a vibrant hub of culinary delights, live entertainment, and community spirit from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This non-profit agricultural extravaganza, dedicated to showcasing the region’s premier garlic growers and herb producers, promises to be bigger, bolder, and more flavorful than ever – and organizers are buzzing with excitement to welcome record-breaking crowds.

With the Mohawk Valley’s ideal climate and fertile soils nurturing some of the finest garlic and herbs in New York State, the festival isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of local agriculture, innovation, and good old-fashioned fun. Attendees can expect a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, from sizzling garlic-infused dishes to hands-on demonstrations that inspire home gardeners and aspiring farmers alike.

“This year’s festival is all about connecting people with the land and each other,” said Julie Webster, event organizer and one of the festival’s founders. “We’ve seen our attendance grow year after year, and 2025 feels like the perfect storm of community energy and fresh ideas. Whether you’re a garlic aficionado or love a great day out, we’re inviting everyone to come eat, stink, and be merry – it’s going to be unforgettable!”

Last year’s event shattered records with nearly 6,000 visitors flocking to Canal Place, drawn by perfect weather and an unbeatable lineup of activities. The 2024 festival, the 21st annual, featured long lines of eager foodies from 10 a.m. well past 3 p.m., with horse and carriage rides by CNY Carriage Company booked solid all day, ferrying “stinkin’ happy people” along the scenic Erie Canal.

Musicians kept the energy high, and volunteers earned rave reviews for their friendliness and efficiency. A third of the admission donations supported local non-profits like the Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts, Pause 4 All Paws Animal Rescue, Inc., and Little Falls Rotary, underscoring the festival’s commitment to giving back.

Building on that momentum, 2025 promises even more thrills. Free horse and carriage rides will return, offering a nostalgic jaunt along the historic Erie Canal – a nod to the region’s rich heritage. Shuttle services from designated parking areas throughout the city will make getting there a breeze, ensuring no one misses out on the action.

Admission remains a suggested donation of just $5 per person or $15 for families, with children under 12 admitted free – all proceeds fueling community initiatives.

At the heart of the festival are the vendors – over 80 carefully curated stalls featuring everything from heirloom garlic varieties to herb-infused artisanal products, gourmet foods, and handmade crafts. Past years have seen vendors sell out completely, with many reporting their best sales ever.

This year, expect an expanded lineup of local farmers showcasing innovative crops, alongside food trucks and stalls dishing up garlic-laden treats that will have your taste buds dancing. From garlic fries and herb-roasted meats to exotic dips and freshly baked goods, the food court alone is worth the trip.

“Our vendors are the stars of the show,” Webster enthused. “They’re passionate about what they do, and it shows in every bite. We’ve got new herb blends and garlic hybrids that are game-changers for home cooks. Plus, with demos and lectures on sustainable farming, you’ll leave inspired to start your own garden.”

Entertainment will keep the vibes lively all day long, with live music echoing through Canal Place. Bands will take the stage, encouraging dancing and mingling amid the festive atmosphere – much like in 2018, when two bands turned the event into a full-blown party.

Children’s activities ensure the whole family can join in, from interactive herb-planting workshops to fun games that educate and entertain. And don’t forget the lectures and demonstrations, where experts share tips on growing these flavorful crops in the Mohawk Valley’s unique environment.

Mayor Deborah Kaufman of Little Falls is equally thrilled about the festival’s return, highlighting its role in boosting the local economy and putting the city on the map. “The Garlic & Herb Festival is more than just an event – it’s a showcase of what makes Little Falls special,” Kaufman said. “Our historic Canal Place comes alive with the energy of thousands of visitors, supporting our farmers, artisans, and non-profits.”

“Last year’s record crowd brought people from as far as Connecticut and Massachusetts, and we’re expecting even more in 2025. It’s a day where community pride shines, and I can’t wait to see families, friends, and food lovers coming together to celebrate our agricultural heritage,” she stated.

The festival’s growth tells a story of resilience and passion. Back in 2018, attendance hovered around 3,500, with perfect weather and a reconfigured food court creating a party-like buzz. By 2022, post-pandemic enthusiasm pushed numbers over 5,000, with 75 vendors selling out and attendees raving about the music and overall vibe.

In 2024, the event expanded to include Rock Valley Brewing Company for extra space, accommodating the surge in visitors and allowing more non-profits to participate. Organizers like Webster credit the success to the community’s unwavering support. “Every year, we ask ourselves how to top the last one, and every year, the people of Mohawk Valley deliver,” she said. “From volunteers directing traffic to the Little Falls City Police and Fire Departments ensuring safety, it’s a team effort that makes this festival magical.”

For those planning to attend, preparation is key. With parking shuttles available, arriving early is advised to snag the best spots and beat the crowds. The festival’s website, https://mvghf.com, offers vendor applications (opening in January 2026) and more details. And if you’re a would-be volunteer, now’s the time to get involved – contact the team via the site to help make 2025 the best yet.

As the date approaches, the excitement is palpable. “We’ve got something for everyone – foodies, families, farmers, and fun-seekers,” Webster added. “Come hungry, leave happy, and maybe a little garlicky. It’s the event that reminds us why we love living in the Mohawk Valley.”

Mayor Kaufman echoed that sentiment: “Little Falls is a hidden gem, and festivals like this put us in the spotlight. Join us on September 13 for a day of flavor, fun, and fellowship – you won’t want to miss it!”

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-timer, the Mohawk Valley Garlic & Herb Festival is poised to deliver an experience that’s as aromatic as it is inspiring. With history on its side and innovation driving it forward, this year’s event is set to break new ground – or at least plant some new garlic bulbs.

See you at Canal Place!