STOCKTON, California — A Northern California tradition rooted in agriculture reached a milestone this weekend as the Asparagus Festival marked 40 years of celebrating a crop once central to the region’s economy.
Organizers said the annual event at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds drew more than 30,000 people, with early estimates suggesting attendance could reach a record once final numbers are confirmed.
“In this boat, we have our world-famous tradition same recipe, deep-fried asparagus,” longtime volunteer Julie Linesburgh said. “It’s the star of the show.”…