St. Louis VegFest will happen RAIN OR SHINE, so dress accordingly!
At our first VegFest in 2018, we didn't know what to expect. We were blown away by over 8,000 attendees, countless vendors and speakers, and the community that came together for one special day. We have since grown to showcase around 70 exciting vendors and offer speakers in the main pavilion, entertainment, free yoga, and fun activities for the kids. With every event, we improve and learn more about the vegan community. We appreciate the patronage, support, donations, and feedback that have helped us grow and deepen our community roots. We look forward to seeing you October 11th, 2026!
What is "Vegfest"?
Vegfest is an event, often held annually, that encompasses all things vegan. But what does "vegan" mean?
"Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment. In dietary terms it denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals." — The Vegan Society
One thing all vegans have in common is a plant-based diet avoiding all animal foods such as meat (including fish, shellfish and insects), dairy, eggs and honey—as well as avoiding animal-derived materials, products tested on animals and places that use animals for entertainment.
Vegfests take place in most major cities around the world. They include vendors who offer food, merchandise, and non-profit and informational organizations. They also host presenters, yoga, children’s activities, a DJ, etc.
Food vendors can include almost anything you can think of, but "veganized." These include pizza, tacos, protein bowls, hot dogs, chik’n, coffee, smoothies, juices, bakery goods like cakes, and cookies, etc. Merchandise vendors can include apparel, accessories like jewelry and handbags, kitchenware like coffee mugs and cutting boards, body care products, plant based and natural health products, etc. Non-profit organizations would mostly consist of animal rescues and sanctuaries, animal activist groups, and any other organizations that promote veganism as a path to reach their goals whether it be environmental, human health or animal rights. Informational businesses would be, for example, health coaching, plant-based cooking classes, and wellness or fitness coaching that is vegan centered, plant-based health services like CBD and supplements.
Some presenters could give inspirational lectures involving animal rights, health or fitness, gardening, mindful living. Presenters could also be musicians, comedians, cooking demos, and other presentations all given by members of the vegan community. Most vegfests include yoga practices and other meditation classes. A children’s activity area is usually a part of the festival as well, and can include face painting, coloring books, puppet shows, yard games, potting plants, etc.
St. Louis hosts one of many free-to-attend annual Vegfests. So if you're still unsure what this event entails, come check us out this year. Eat some delicious food, shop for some housewares or body care, visit the non-profit tents to learn more about the many animals saved, have a seat in the pavilion and listen to one of our speakers. Come take it all in!