The Artichoke Festival is ending its run after 65 years. Organizers cite the financial strain of insurance, permitting and production costs. Originally based in Castroville, the event moved to the Monterey County Fair & Event Center a few years back, and a new location near Salinas was announced before the decision was made to shut down. Organizers thanked the sponsors, volunteers, vendors, growers and the entire community for more than six decades of support. artichokefestival.org.