The 2026 Gilroy Garlic Festival celebrates year two of their epic comeback story under the leadership of this year ' s Festival President, Alex Misa( left). We caught Alex along with one of the Festival ' s Flame Kings, George Minerva( center), and the Festival ' s " Sauce Boss " Jessica Redd. Misa and company are cooking up a great weekend event and looking forward to serving locals and visitors from far away places this July 24-26. For information, tickets and more, visit: gilroygarlicfestival. com See you there!

Blink, it ' s Summer!

Morgan Hill ' s Friday Night Music keeps the beat thru Aug 21 at the Rich Firato Amphitheater, named in honor of a true community champion we lost way too soon. The Morgan Hill Freedom Fest lights up 4th of July weekend with major events all over town, ending with a spectacular parade and fireworks show on the 4th.

In Gilroy music fills the air Thursday nights, June thru August. Taprooms, restaurants, food and craft vendors line the streets. The 3rd Friday Art Walk showcases various venues and artists all summer into fall. The Gilroy Garlic Festival, stronger than ever in its 2nd comeback year, owns the last full weekend in July. Only 4,000 tickets per day – up from 3K last year. Follow their socials for more. August is Rodeo time, and we’ re all in‘ round here. This roundup kicks off Aug 7 and runs the weekend. Schedule and ticket information on pages 26-27.

Hollister and San Juan Bautista have some great events this summer, including the Hollister Independence Rally, July 3-4. San Juan Day is August 9th. We think any day in SJB is a great day!

Did you know, all these events are put on and run by local volunteers? Amazing! Please thank the folks working these events … and take it easy on them, LOL. Hope to see you out and about!

Let’ s go make history … together.

SUMMER 2026 Gilroy • Morgan Hill TODAY: Rooted in Community • Rising Together! gmhtoday. com 5