Crusher, the inflatable garlic clove, proved a hit with the kids while shoppers could not get enough of the numerous varities of garlic for sale.

Bucketts of Garlic was initiated by a handful of local growers to promote and celebrate both their own zesty produce and the re-emerging Australian garlic industry.

Stroud Heritage Growers and Artisans Market will repeat a similar line-up for their Australia Day garlic-themed market.

The much anticipated third annual garlic dinner at Roadies Café in Gloucester on January 18 sold out within days of being announced. 

This year, Stroud’s Central Hotel has risen to the challenge of preparing a garlic-inspired feast and will host the village’s first garlic-themed dinner on Saturday, January 25. 

Food outlets and businesses along the Bucketts Way are taking up the garlic theme with garlic-inspired menus and food products. 

Look out for garlic sausages at local butchers, garlic sauces and condiments at local cafés and fresh local garlic at markets and shops.

For those seeking the satisfaction of producing their own pungent bulbs, Jocelyn Colleran will host an ‘Introduction to Garlic’ workshop in Stroud on Saturday, January 18. 

Jocelyn will provide a thorough grounding on planting, harvesting and curing practices as well as a glimpse into the world of garlic flavour and food chemistry.

Bucketts of Garlic is a joint initiative of Visit Barrington Tops, Gloucester Farmers Market and Stroud Heritage Growers and Artisans Market.

For more information contact Tess Hilleard or Thomas Davey at Gloucester Visitor Information Centre on 6558 1408, visit www.visitgloucester.com.au  or find Bucketts of Garlic on Facebook.