Join the Twin Cities Veg Fest on Sunday, September 22, at Harriet Island Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free to enter, and it features a variety of health resources and activities with over 25 plant-based food trucks and vendors. Attendees can indulge in delicious burgers, ice cream, international cuisine and much more, all of which have a healthy, plant-based twist.

“Twin Cities Veg Fest is a great chance to try a wide variety of plant-based foods and learn about their benefits in the Twin Cities Metro area,” says Laura Matanah, Executive Director of Compassionate Action for Animals, the local nonprofit hosting the festival.

The festival offers free yoga and activity classes, and attendees can try games like cornhole, croquet and hula hooping. The event also features guest speakers, cooking demos and musical performances.

Information From Registered Dietitians

Karla Moreno-Bryce, MDA, RD, LD, will discuss child nutrition at 10:30 a.m., debunk myths about plant-based diets for kids and highlight their benefits. Visit the Ask a Dietitian booth at the central tent for basic nutrition info and consultations.

Nutrition and Breast Cancer Prevention

At noon, the Physician’s Committee for Responsible Medicine will host a Let’s Beat Breast Cancer session. Food for Life Instructor Jodi Gruhn will explain how plant-based diets can reduce cancer risk and demonstrate an easy, tasty recipe.

Consumers continue to reduce their intake of meat and animal products for many health, wellness and sustainability reasons. Veganuary, a campaign encouraging participants to adopt a vegan lifestyle for January, has seen its sign-ups soar since 2015, reaching over 25 million participants in 2024.

Medical experts advocate for the health benefits of plant-based diets. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics states that vegetarian diets are optimal for health and the environment. Adopting such diets in childhood can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Moreover, they advise limiting consumption of processed meats like ham, bacon and hot dogs due to their high saturated fat and sodium content.

The first 100 Veg Fest attendees receive free swag bags from sponsors. Arrive early to enjoy all the festival has to offer. Cash or credit cards can be used for food purchases, and entry and health activities are free.

Location: Harriet Island Park, September 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Get free Metro Transit passes at TCVegFest.com. Paid parking is available at Union Depot lots C and D. HourCar offers free rides and parking, and bike racks are provided.