Since 1959, the Monterey Peninsula has come together to celebrate California’s official state vegetable. California’s artichoke history begins in 1922 when the first artichoke shoots were planted in Castroville. Nearly 100 percent of America’s fresh artichoke supply is grown in California. In addition, nearly two-thirds is grown in the small town of Castroville.
The annual Artichoke Festival began in 1959 as a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic artichoke and the region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” As a result, the festival became a primary source of funding for local non-profit groups that depend upon a successful event for their viability throughout the years. learn more about our festival on our website.
artichokefestival.org/about-festival/