Tomato Festival in Carmel Valley, California on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008
 

Tomatoes--red, juicy, sweet, and hard to come by. Californians love tomatoes but have a tough time finding delicious treats grown locally. That all changes each year in Carmel-by-the-Sea's Carmel Valley when TomatoFest celebrates one of America's favorite foods and ingredients to many gourmet dishes. A Celebration of Food, Wine & Heirloom Tomatoes at NatureSweet Carmel TomatoFest is not to be missed for tomato fans.

Situated in the bucolic valley with its verdant greens at Quail Lodge Resort, there's not better place to gather for discovery of the recent crop and new products and recipes being introduced. Showcasing a tasting of 350 varieties of heirloom tomatoes, cuisine by 60 of America's finest chefs and tasting of 200 premium wines, there's no better excuse or time to visit Carmel and Monterey County. For closet tomato gourmets, you'll be amazed how you really aren't alone in your passion for tomatoes. Over 3,000 people attend the annual event, and never tire of discussion about tomatoes and their application in recipes, or eaten much like any piece of fruit.

Premier Heirloom Tomato Harvest Festival will include gourmet products, world class chefs, and even International Olive Oil Tasting, Salsa Showcase, gardening demonstrations, an old-time country BBQ, live music and dancing. If you've never met Gary Ibsen, founder of this culinary food fest, you'll be delighted at the vision he created, celebrated at one of the world's favorite destinations.  17th Annual NatureSweet Carmel TomatoFest® will be held on Sept. 14, 2008 at 12:30pm/ tomatofest.com. Call: 1-800-965-4827. Location: Quail Lodge Resort, 8205 Valley Greens Drive, Carmel, CA 93923

On the previous night, Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008 "Hot Tomato Night" Dinner & Dance at Quail Lodge Resort Ballroom
is a highlight to the Carmel TomatoFest. The dinner/dance at Quail Lodge Resort, with delicious cuisine created by an honored Celebrity Chef,  musical entertainment and surprise guests is limited to 100 persons. - Cost: $150. Tickets: tomatofest.com

  Quail Lodge Resort Location

Two options for your stay (if not booked already) include next door neighbor to Quail Lodge, Carmel Valley Ranch, and Quail Lodge, itself. If booked, check out the village where you'll find an abundance of hotel rooms.

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