Editor’s Note:
About 10 years ago, Nancy Stewart-Franczak called me up and said she wanted to take me to the “stinkiest” city in America, Gilroy, California. She was organizing a trip to Gilroy to visit their Garlic Festival and she felt the mayor (me at the time) needed to see what the possibilities of the festival were. I was blown away. The entire Gilroy community turned out for the Garlic Fest which was both a financial boom for the town and a great bonding experience for residents. That trip gave me insight into Nancy and how she thinks and works. She’s all about Delray and she believes in the power of events to make money and to bring a community together. We sat down with Nancy on the eve of The Garlic Festival (feb. 7-9) to discuss the event, her philosophy and some surprising impacts that events bring to our community.
Garlic Fest is coming up fast, tell us how the festival has evolved over the years and what to expect this year?
What keeps you motivated after so many years and special events?
Why are special events important for Delray Beach?
This festival is interesting in that it raises money for local non-profits. How much has Garlic Fest raised over the years?