I am delighted and grateful to be part of a group of local volunteers who, for the past few months, have been working very hard planning the first vegetarian festival for our region!
Peterborough VegFest will be an opportunity for people in Peterborough and the Kawarthas to sample and learn about the delicious benefits of a plant-based diet. The event is taking place at Millennium Park in downtown Peterborough on Sunday, Sept.17th, 11am – 6pm.
Vegetarianism is growing in popularity around the globe, inspired by concerns about health, the considerable environmental impacts of meat and dairy, compassion for animals, and a growing awareness that far from being bland, a plant-based diet can be richly varied and delicious. Volunteers in cities across Ontario organize local VegFests, including Kingston, Guelph, Hamilton, London, Windsor, Niagara, Ottawa, and Toronto.
The festival’s intent is to demonstrate to people in our region and beyond that vegan food is delicious, accessible, versatile, economical, healthier and better for the environment. Peterborough VegFest will offer a chance to sample and purchase a wide range of plant-based foods. Local restaurants and food providers such as The Food Forest, The Planet Café and Bakery, and Vegan Sweet Home will offer local food options. Vegan offerings from other cities, like Dolled-Up Desserts from Hamilton, Boon Burger from Barrie, and Nanashake from Toronto will be present to complement and showcase a variety of plant-based cuisines. With a local farm zone, the festival will also celebrate harvest season and Local Food Month in Peterborough to further encourage the support of our local farmers.
Peterborough VegFest will feature much more than great food. Many of our vendors will offer plant-based, environmentally friendly products, such as Petit Lapin who will sell their exceptional natural, vegan skin care products, handmade in Trent Hills, and free of chemicals, synthetics and palm oil. Wully Outerwear will be there showcasing their locally made, vegan, ecological winter parkas, an environmentally friendly and cruelty-free alternative to Canada Goose.
Our festival will also feature workshops and speakers on the health benefits of a plant based diet, vegan cooking and food demos, and more. Local musicians will delight festival goers throughout the day. A kids’ area will ensure that little ones will be entertained with a wide array of children’s activities, including a huge veggie centered colouring wall!
Join us at Millennium Park on Sunday, September 17, for the first ever Peterborough VegFest! There will be something for everyone, from vegan to veg-curious, admission is free and everyone is welcome! For more information or to learn how to get involved or become a vendor, please visit www.ptbovegfest.ca, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, @ptbovegfest.
By Anca Pascalau
