Mark Your Calendar for these Mushroom Festivals

Mushrooms have captivated human imagination for centuries, whether as culinary delights, natural remedies, or subjects of scientific study. For mushroom enthusiasts, attending a mushroom festival offers an incredible opportunity to celebrate this fascinating kingdom of fungi. Here’s a guide to some of the best and coolest mushroom festivals, events, and conferences around the world.

1. Telluride Mushroom Festival - Telluride, Colorado, USA

The Telluride Mushroom Festival is one of the most renowned mushroom festivals in the United States. Held annually in the picturesque town of Telluride, Colorado, this "Shroomfest" is a must-attend for mushroom devotees. Get ready to learn about mycology, the culinary arts, and the numerous health benefits of mushrooms.

Highlights:

• Foraging Workshops: Learn how to identify and harvest wild mushrooms in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.
• Lectures and Panels: Hear from leading mycologists, chefs, and health experts.
• Cooking Demonstrations: Discover new recipes and cooking techniques from top culinary professionals.
• Art and Music: Enjoy mushroom-themed art exhibits and live music performances.

Website: Telluride Mushroom Festival

2. Oregon Mushroom Festival - Yachats, Oregon, USA

Nestled along the scenic Oregon Coast, the Yachats Mushroom Festival celebrates the region's rich fungal diversity. This family-friendly event offers a variety of activities designed to educate and entertain.

Highlights:

• Guided Forays: Explore the lush coastal forests with experienced guides.
• Mushroom Market: Purchase fresh wild mushrooms and endless mushroom-themed products.
• Educational Talks: Learn from local experts about mushroom cultivation and foraging.
• Culinary Events: Savor mushroom-inspired dishes prepared by local chefs.

Website: Yachats Mushroom Festival

3. Mushroom Mardi Gras - Morgan Hill, California, USA

Mushroom Mardi Gras is a lively celebration of mushrooms and community in Morgan Hill, California. This festival blends culinary delights, live entertainment, and educational opportunities in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Food Vendors: Taste a variety of mushroom dishes from local and regional chefs.
• Cooking Demonstrations: Watch live cooking demonstrations and pick up new recipes.
• Live Music and Entertainment: Enjoy performances from local bands and entertainers.
• Kids’ Zone: Fun activities and educational opportunities for children.

Website: Mushroom Mardi Gras

4. Wild Mushroom Foray - Newfoundland, Canada

The Wild Mushroom Foray in Newfoundland, Canada, provides a close and educational look at wild mushrooms. This unique and intimate event is perfect for serious mycology enthusiasts and those looking to expand their knowledge.

Highlights:

• Guided Forays: Expert-led foraging trips into the forests of Newfoundland.
• Identification Workshops: Hands-on sessions to help participants learn to identify various mushroom species.
• Mushrooms Talks: Presentations by leading mycologists and researchers.
• Culinary Events: The meals feature locally foraged mushrooms.

Website: Wild Mushroom Foray

5. FungiFest - East Coast, Australia

All along Australia's East Coast, FungiFest is a series of events celebrating the diverse fungal flora of the region. This festival combines outdoor activities with educational workshops and culinary experiences.

Highlights:

• Foraging Excursions: Explore Australia's unique forests and learn about native fungi.
• Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops covering cultivation, identification, and more.
• Culinary Events: Enjoy unique mushroom-themed dinners and tastings.
• Family Activities: Engage in fun and educational activities for all ages.

Website: FungiFest

6. Mushroom Festival in the Humungus Fungus Fest - Crystal Falls, Michigan, USA

The Humungus Fungus Fest is in Crystal Falls, Michigan. They named it to celebrate one of the world's largest living organisms—a massive Armillaria fungus. This quirky and fun festival holds a variety of events and activities centered around the world of fungi.

Highlights:

• Parades and Contests: Participate in or watch parades, mushroom-cooking contests, and other fun competitions.
• Guided Tours: Explore the nearby forests with knowledgeable guides.
• Food and Drink: As always, explore a buffet of mushroom-based dishes and beverages.
• Educational Sessions: Learn about the Humungus Fungus and other local fungi.

Website: Humungus Fungus Fest

7. International Mycological Congress - Various Locations

The International Mycological Congress (IMC) is a big event for mushroom science fans. It happens every few years in different places around the world. This conference brings together mycologists, researchers, and students to share their latest findings. This centralized experience explores the advancements in the field of mycology.

Highlights:

• Scientific Presentations: Hear from leading experts about the latest research in mycology.
• Workshops and Symposia: Participate in specialized sessions on various mushroom topics.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and enthusiasts from around the world.
• Exhibits and Posters: Explore displays of cutting-edge research and innovations.

Website: International Mycological Congress

8. Santa Cruz Fungus Fair - Santa Cruz, California, USA

The Santa Cruz Fungus Fair is a beloved local event that draws mushroom enthusiasts from all over California. Hosted by the Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz, this festival offers a variety of educational and fun activities.

Highlights:

• Mushroom Displays: View an impressive array of wild mushrooms collected by local foragers.
• Workshops and Lectures: Attend sessions on mushroom identification, cultivation, and cooking.
• Kids’ Activities: Engage children with interactive and educational activities.
• Culinary Delights: Enjoy the array of mushroom-based foods and beverages.

Website: Santa Cruz Fungus Fair

9. Cascade Mycological Society Mushroom Festival - Eugene, Oregon, USA

The Cascade Mycological Society Mushroom Festival in Eugene, Oregon, is a celebration of the Pacific Northwest's rich fungal diversity. This festival offers a mix of educational activities, foraging opportunities, and culinary experiences.

Highlights:

• Foraging Trips: Join guided forays to collect wild mushrooms in the region.
• Educational Talks: Learn from local experts about mushroom identification and cultivation.
• Cooking Demonstrations: Watch live cooking demos and taste delicious mushroom dishes.
• Exhibits and Vendors: Explore displays of local mushrooms and browse various products from vendors.

Website: Cascade Mycological Society Mushroom Festival

10. UK Fungus Day - Various Locations, United Kingdom

UK Fungus Day is a nationwide event celebrating the fascinating world of fungi. Organized by the British Mycological Society, this festival includes activities and events at various locations throughout the UK.

Highlights:

• Guided Walks: Join foraging walks led by local experts.
• Exhibitions: View displays of fungi collected from different regions.
• Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops on mushroom cultivation and identification.
• Public Talks: Attend lectures and presentations by mycologists and enthusiasts.

Website: UK Fungus Day

Whether you're a mycology enthusiast, a culinary adventurer, or simply curious about the world of fungi, there's a mushroom festival out there for you. These events offer a unique opportunity to learn, explore, and celebrate the fascinating kingdom of mushrooms. Each festival around the world has its own unique mushroom magic in beautiful places with vibrant cultures.

So mark your calendar, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on a fungal adventure.