Sure, spring and summer boast devastatingly gorgeous weather, but it’s the seasons’ abundance of food festivals that really cause a frenzy. And this year, even gluten-free peeps get to take part. Marking its triumphant return -- after a two-year, pandemic-fuelled hiatus -- Gluten Free Garage is back, and better than ever.
Marking its 9th year, Gluten Free Garage, or GFG, is the city’s original pop-up gluten-free market. Inspired by her daughter’s celiac diagnosis, GFG was started in 2012 by Ronnilyn Pustil. “I want gluten-free people to have a food festival that they can go to and eat safely, and eat really good food,” she says on the event’s website.
A fantastic way to cap off Celiac Awareness Month, Gluten Free Garage will take place at Artscape Wychwood Barns on May 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Taking part this year, are over 75 vendors from Toronto and across Canada, including Neal Brothers, Coco Market, The Happy Era, The Butternut Baking Co., Mad Mexican, Slice of Life and many more.
With so many vendors participating, there promises to be enough sweet, savoury, edible and drinkable gluten-free options to make anyone living a gluten-free lifestyle rejoice. From bread and baked goods to snacks, pasta, hot sauces, meatless meals, popsicles and ice cream, visitors will discover a wealth of temptations as they roam the stalls. Feel like celebrating? Guests can even toast to the occasion with Montreal-based Glutenberg Brewery beer. Fern Shop will also be on-site with a flower bar featuring fresh and dried blooms.
The city’s ultimate gluten-free event, this is a food festival for anyone eager to explore the breadth of gluten-free products now available. “We have such incredible vendors and sponsors,” says Pustil. “They bring their A-game every year.” For those with celiac disease, a gluten intolerance or who simply prefer a gluten-free diet, Gluten Free Garage is sure to impress.
Bring the family and enjoy a day exploring everything Gluten Free Garage has to offer. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door, with children under 12 admitted free of charge. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Gluten Free Garage website.
