Chicagoans like their meat. That’s no secret. But it’s also no excuse to skip this weekend’s annual Chicago VeganMania, says co-founder Marla Rose.
Rose gives three reasons anyone, whether vegan or not, should attend:
1. Do it for your health. “Everyone needs to eat more fruits and vegetables and whole grains whether you’re a meat eater or not,” Rose says. “Vegans even need to eat more healthfully.” That’s not to say you won’t find delicious and decadent treats among the 19 food vendors (which will be the world’s largest temporary vegan food court, according to Rose). But the fest offers more than just another place to eat; there will be cooking demos on how to use more whole foods, or how to cook without oil, for example, Rose says.
2. Do it for the environment. “We all share this planet together, and many, many studies are (saying) now that the future of the planet depends on us limiting our consumption of animal products,” says Rose. “The more that we can reduce our consumption of animals, or eliminate it, the better.”
Also, festival volunteers will be sorting trash, diverting waste otherwise destined for a landfill into recyclable and compostable piles. Water-filling stations require attendees to BYOB — water bottle, that is.
3. Do it for the fun. It’s fun. “It’s a welcoming, inclusive fun celebration,” Rose says.
Attendees can expect to attend workshops, hear speakers, listen to music and find out about vendors that specialize in animal-free products.
This year’s festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Broadway Armory at 5917 N. Broadway, Chicago. The first 100 attendees will get cotton tote bags filled with swag.
The event is free, but a $3 donation is suggested. Food is available for purchase and most items will be under $10.
More information at ChicagoVeganMania.com.
