Charlotte Prepares for a Vibrant Vegan Festival!
This weekend, Charlotte will be abuzz with excitement as the 11th Annual Charlotte Veg Fest takes over The Amp Ballantyne. On Saturday, October 12, from noon to 6 p.m. (with VIP access starting at 11:00 a.m.), the festival promises to be a delightful celebration of all things vegan. If you love food, fun, and family-friendly activities, this is an event you don’t want to miss!
A Flavorful Feast Awaits
What can attendees expect at the fest? Oh, so much! From local vegan food trucks to an array of plant-based vendors, there’s something for every palate. You might be thinking, “Can vegan food really be that good?” Well, according to Charlotte Veg Fest’s president, Jameka Whitten, it absolutely can!
Jameka has been vegan since birth, having been raised in a household that embraced a plant-based lifestyle. In her words, “I feel like that’s the best gift that my parents ever gave me.” She’s passionate about spreading the word on veganism and combatting common misconceptions. “People often think vegans are hardcore and don’t listen to others. But we are all about compassion for both our furry friends and our fellow humans,” Jameka explains.
Growth of a Community
The roots of Charlotte Veg Fest began in 2012 in a parking lot filled with like-minded souls wanting to create a safe space for vegans and vegan businesses. Over the years, this humble gathering blossomed into a bustling festival, filled with resources and education, providing avenues for the community to learn more about the vegan lifestyle.
“Each year we have more vendors and speakers,” Jameka says. “It’s incredible to see how the community has responded.” This year, attendees will enjoy several new offerings at the revamped venue. After two years at Camp North End, the festival is moving to a fully outdoor setting at The Amp Ballantyne—how refreshing!
Exciting Activities for Everyone
There’s a little something for everyone at this year’s Veg Fest. Prepare for a thrilling cook-off showdown featuring local vegan culinary stars, Chef Joya and Chef Jewel. Trust us; you won’t want to miss this heated competition! Looking to stretch your body? Join in for a free yoga class or get your groove on with a Zumba session.
Moreover, there’s a dedicated Kids Corner where little ones can enjoy face painting, games, and engaging activities designed just for them. And who can resist the allure of around nine different food trucks, plus approximately 60 to 70 more vendors showcasing everything from mouthwatering baked goods to beautiful jewelry and handmade soaps? All of the vendors will be presenting entirely plant-based and vegan products, ensuring that every item aligns with the festival’s mission.
Sharing Knowledge and Insights
One of the main goals of the festival is to foster understanding and knowledge about veganism and sustainability. Attendees can participate in insightful panel discussions focusing on topics like sustainability and the transition from factory farming. It’s a chance to engage with the local vegan community, ask questions, and learn from experts in the field.
Join the Celebration
If you’ve been curious about veganism, looking to expand your palate, or just want to spend a day enjoying good vibes and delicious food, head over to The Amp Ballantyne this Saturday! Let’s celebrate kindness, compassion, and all the wonderful things that a plant-based lifestyle offers.
Remember, this festival isn’t just about food; it’s about coming together as a community to learn and share experiences. So grab your friends and family and make some new memories this weekend at the Charlotte Veg Fest! We can’t wait to see you there!
