Windsor's first VegFest was such a success — it's back for a second year.
That initial event was so well attended, the venue has been changed to the WFCU Centre and a number of elements have been added. There will be a Kid Zone and a number of food trucks specializing in vegetarian fare.
PETA President Ingrid Newkirk and Chef Erica Boyd of Detroit Vegan Soul will be making presentations.
Founder and organizer Steve Palumbo says the goal is to expose more people to what's available with vegetable based products.
He says they're not trying to preach the vegetarian gospel, just let people see what's out there.
"We want people to come and experience food," says Palumbo. "We want them to experience products that are kind of aligned with how everyone wants to live their lives."
Palumbo says they're hoping people will see the broader benefits of using fewer animal products.
Homemade Southwestern Mexican Quinoa Salad. (Photo courtesy iStock/bhofack2)
"All our vendors are serving food that has no animal products sold, there's going to be no leather," says Palumbo. "That's what we want to do to show people we can be happy and super healthy, nothing needs to change, but we can also do something, be a little more kind and sustainable in terms of the environment."
Palumbo says he used to eat meat, but now finds there's greater variety in vegetarian cuisine than he thought.
Attendance will cost $5, with children under 12 getting in free. The event runs today from 11am - 5pm.