Everything Under The Sun: Worcester's VegFest Is On The Way

Friday, February 19, 2016

Worcester's VegFest Is On The Way

Some of the sights from last year's VegFest.

Sometimes an annual festival can grow so much that it can encompass an entire region. That has happened in the case of the Worcester VegFest. In 2014, the Fest had grown so large that it was drawing about 6,000 attendees and needed to utilize the rather large DCU Center to accommodate the large amount of interest.

Considering that this event was started as a local festival to celebrate vegetarianism, is all-volunteer, and free to attendees, that is quite a growth path. One of the organizers is a first grade teacher, Brie Goldberg, among the original team of volunteers that organized the local fest. Not only was this fest held to celebrate being vegetarian, it also provides an opportunity for attendees to learn about the many benefits of following a vegetarian lifestyle. The fest provides opportunities for visitors to learn about the lifestyle, specific products, types of advocacy, and nutrition.

Ms. Goldberg's intent was to appeal to a diverse audience, keep the costs low for attendees, and make changing to a vegetarian lifestyle accessible. She wanted attendees to "learn about the positive effects that a vegetarian lifestyle can have on the environment, personal health, and well-being of animals."

This fest was also able to capitalize on a growing trend to develop healthier lifestyles. Ms. Goldberg said, "Vegetarianism is on the rise and people are more aware of what they are eating. Ten years ago, if you mentioned 'vegan', half of America would not know what you were talking about. That is not true now. Across the board, there is more awareness."

With the team now organizing the fest for May 1 this year, there has been a name change, to acknowledge how big the fest has gotten. Last year marked the introduction of the NEW ENGLAND VEGFEST, still being held at the DCU Center. It draws exhibitors and presenters from the region and admission is still free. You can try the food for free; that might even convince you to embrace the lifestyle without losing the flavors that you enjoy.

There is, of course, nothing like the endorsement of a local individual, who is involved in organizing a different festival in Worcester. According to Tina Zlody, Co-Founder of START ON THE STREET, "VegFest is one of the best events in the city! It combines education about compassionate practices, along with wonderful vendors who promote animal welfare, vegetarian and vegan living, in a festive and warm atmosphere. And the food is great too!"

Congressman Jim McGovern (right of center) attended last year's VegFest.

If you find yourself in the area at the beginning of May, it's something that's worth checking out. You never know, maybe there's a committed vegan inside of you.