The annual Asparagus Festival takes place April 15 through 17, 2011, in Stockton, California.

The foodie event downtown is centered on asparagus in all its forms with celebrity chefs, recipe contests and children’s events on the schedule. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. each of the three days.

Last year, more than 36,000 pounds of asparagus served up on Asparagus Alley, including deep-fried asparagus (40,000 orders), Asparagus Tri-tip Sandwiches (9,000 orders), Asparagus Burritos (4,000 orders) and pasta dishes (8,500 orders). It’s all grown nearby, often picked the same day it’s served.