St. Louis VegFest 2023
VegFest will happen RAIN OR SHINE so dress accordingly!
For our first VegFest in 2018, we did not know what to expect. We were blown away by over 8,000 attendees, countless vendors and speakers, and the community that came together for one special day. We have since grown to showcase around 70 exciting vendors and offer speakers in the main pavilion, entertainment, free yoga, and fun activities for the kids. With every event, we improve and learn more about the vegan community. We appreciate the patronage, support, donations, and feedback that have helped us grow and deepen our community roots. We look forward to seeing you October 1st, 2023 for what is sure to be a momentous event!
What is a Vegfest?
A Vegfest is an event, usually an annual event, that encompasses all things vegan. If you are not sure what vegan means- “Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude- as far as is possible and practicable- all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans, and the environment.” – The Vegan Society. One thing all vegans have in common is a plant-based diet avoiding all animal foods such as meat (including fish, shellfish and insects), dairy, eggs and honey - as well as avoiding animal-derived materials, products tested on animals and places that use animals for entertainment.
Vegfest’s take place in most major cities around the world. They include vendors who offer food, merchandise, and non-profit and informational organizations. They also host presenters, yoga, children’s activities, a DJ, etc.
Food vendors would include almost anything you can think of veganized. These include pizza, tacos, protein bowls, hot dogs, chik’n, coffee, smoothies, juices, bakery goods like cakes, and cookies, etc. Merchandise vendors would include apparel, accessories like jewelry and handbags, kitchenware like coffee mugs and cutting boards, body care products, plant based and natural health products, etc. Non-profit organizations would mostly consist of animal rescues and sanctuaries, animal activist groups, and any other organizations that promote veganism as a path to reach their goals whether it be environmental, human health or animal rights. Informational businesses would be, for example, health coaching, plant-based cooking classes, and wellness or fitness coaching that is vegan centered, plant-based health services like cbd and supplements.
Some presenters could give inspirational lectures involving animal rights, health or fitness, gardening, mindful living. Presenters could also be musicians, comedians, cooking demos, and other presentations all given by members of the vegan community. Most vegfest’s include yoga practices and other meditation classes. A children’s activity area is usually a part of the festival as well, and can include face painting, coloring books, puppet shows, yard games, potting plants, etc.
St. Louis hosts one of many free annual vegfest's. So if you are still unsure what this event entails, come check us out this year. Eat some delicious food, shop for some housewares or body care, visit the non-profit tents to learn more about the many animals saved, have a seat in the pavilion and listen to one of our speakers. Come take it all in!