If your idea of vegan food is a sad bowl of iceberg lettuce garnished with shredded paper, Central Florida Veg Fest would like a word. Returning for its 21st year, the event takes over Festival Park with more than 200 vendors celebrating all things plant-based. And no, you don’t have to give up meat to attend. Their menu includes everything from vegan empanadas and mushroom “chicken” sandwiches to dairy-free ice cream. They’ll also be hosting cooking demonstrations, live music and yoga sessions for your meal breaks.
Beyond the culinary offerings, the festival digs into larger ideas of sustainability, animal welfare and the environmental impact of what we eat, with speakers, community organizations and an Animal Haven featuring local rescue groups and pet adoption orgs. There’s even an Ask-A-Vegan tent for anyone still wondering if seitan is diabolical.
Admission is free, so come hungry and hopefully you’ll leave with a few more vegetables on the scorecard.
10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, Orlando Festival Park, 2911 E. Robinson St., cfvegfest.org, free.
