The very first South Cariboo Garlic Festival was held in August 2000 at Kariboo Farms, the Forest Grove property of Gail & Steve Szolosi. What began as a grassroots celebration quickly turned into something remarkable—thousands of visitors poured in over two days to take part in the festivities!

The overwhelming response made one thing clear: the Festival had tapped into something special. It returned to Kariboo Farms every year through 2005, growing stronger with each season and offering valuable lessons along the way.

By 2006, the South Cariboo Garlic Festival had officially outgrown its original home. It moved to Centennial Park in 100 Mile House, where it could better accommodate the swelling crowds and increasing popularity. It had become a major annual event in the region.

As the Festival grew, Gail recognized the importance of planning for the future. She knew it was time to find an organization that could carry the vision forward with fresh energy and new ideas.

In early 2010, that vision came to life. The Lac La Hache Community Club took the reins, and under the leadership of Director Jeanette McCrea and a dedicated team of volunteers, the Festival found a new and permanent home along Highway 97. Today, the South Cariboo Garlic Festival continues to thrive, rooted in community spirit and a love of all things garlic.

Take a peaceful walk along the scenic shores of beautiful Lac La Hache on the Low Mobility Trail—a welcoming, accessible pathway designed for everyone to enjoy. Officially opened on August 25, 2012, this trail invites visitors to slow down, take in the views, and connect with nature at a gentle pace.

At the heart of our Festival Grounds is a welcoming picnic area, complete with a sturdy, permanent roof—perfect for rain or shine! Whether you're grabbing a bite from one of our food vendors or just need a shady spot to rest, this covered space offers a great place to relax, recharge, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Our Festival Grounds are now equipped with a modern water supply system, ensuring clean, dependable water for the Garlic Festival and all other events hosted on site. Thanks to the expert management by Jayco Plumbing, our infrastructure is ready to support the growing needs of our community gatherings.

As the South Cariboo Garlic Festival continues to grow, so do our needs—especially when it comes to supporting our amazing vendors. That's why we've upgraded our electrical system to power even more booths and activities across the grounds. A big thanks to Shawn Parkins Electric for their top-quality work and commitment to keeping the Festival running smoothly!

Added in 2025, our beautiful new community dock invites you to step right into one of Lac La Hache’s nicest swim areas. Perfect for a refreshing dip, casting a line, launching a kayak, or simply soaking in the view, it’s a sunny-day favorite that brings even more fun and charm to our festival grounds.