Hi - I have heard back from Steve Calvin re the Garlic Festival.
Here's what he had to say:

As for the GF in Saugerties being worth a 4 hr trip, that's pretty
subjective and would be based on the individual. Would I do it?
Probably
not as I grow my own. But there are certainly those who make a whole
weekend out of it. I'd really recommend checking out the website at:
http://hvgf.org/

If you are into "talks", demos, etc there are enough of those to keep
ya
busy. Also performances by various types of artists from German Dance
troops to Banjo players. (Don't know who's preforming this year -
that's
just from recollection )

There is a large arts/crafts area and a TON of food both for eating
there and taking home. I even got some venison there once when I'd run
out before I was able to re-stock the freezer. ;-)

I'd recommend checking out: http://hvgf.org/festinformain_2008.asp
specifically to see if there's enough to hold interest.

If the weather cooperates it can be a fun day or couple of days. If it
doesn't, it can suck!

I'll probably go as I'd like to get some Ukrainian to plant this year
along with the German White and Red. (Yes, we like strong garlic)

If anyone goes, after they are done pigging out on "food street", I
would strongly recommend having the garlic ice cream. SERIOUSLY. I
shunned it
for years and then tried it once. It's EXCELLENT! Not strong garlic
like most people think of, but just a hint of sweet roasted garlic.
Really very good.

Feel free to give Kswck my email address if there are any other
questions.



--
Dora