Known as the “Artichoke Capital of the World,” Castroville hosts the Artichoke Food & Wine Festival , celebrating the region’s iconic crop. Savor artichoke-inspired dishes like fried artichoke hearts, artichoke pizza, and even artichoke cupcakes. The festival also features wine tastings from Monterey County vineyards, live music, cooking demos, and a fun artichoke-themed art contest.