This two day music, art, and food festival is known for its all-vegan dining and drink options. First launched by Hellenic Vincent de Paul in Toronto nine years ago, Vegandale is now held in six cities across the US and Canada with almost 200,000 attendees (and growing) each year. In addition to the over 150 global food vendors at this year’s festival, the event includes interactive art installations and music from major artists all in support of saving the animals. Get ready to power your weekend with these exciting four highlights.
The Food
What sets Vegandale apart from other festivals is the food. Every single thing is vegan with its only focus on saving the animals. There were over two dozen samples of food and drinks from sponsors plus over 120 global vendors selling items like vegan shrimp, sorbet, cake, tacos, and infused drinks. There’s something for everyone of all ages.
The Music
Grammy-nominated Rick Ross headlined this year’s event alongside other notable artists including Jadakiss and Styles P. Fans were shocked at Ricky Rozay’s participation not seeing the animal-fur-wearing rapper as a poster child for a vegan lifestyle. Not to mention Ross also owns over 30 US Wingstop locations, a chicken franchise. Maybe this was Vegandale’s attempt to convert meat-eaters. Aside from The Biggest Boss’s motives, the energy was high as group of friends danced in the crowd and rapped the popular lyrics while feeling the vibes. This musical line up that ended the day’s festivities was a testament to the growing power of Vegandale.
The Art
Feel like a kid again in the interactive art installations throughout the park. Each installation is unique and creates opportunities for great photo ops. Of course, the trending Barbie phenomenon popped up at the fest with Vegandale’s version of a pink life-sized box that attendees could step into and immediately become a “Vegan Model Citizen” Barbie. There were others that allowed you to express your passion for saving animals and then some that were pure nostalgic fun like the colorful life-size rubik’s cube. You were limited only by your imagination.
The Community
With over 25,000 people in attendance, Vegandale is one of the city’s largest events. And it’s expected to grow. Founder Hellenic Vincent de Paul estimates Vegandale will draw over one million attendees across all of its cities by 2027.
While the music line up for next year hasn’t been announced, we can always look forward to more food, community, and fun. When you show up next year, let us know who’s all coming with you.