Vegging Out the the New Jersey Veg Fest
On Sunday, October 2nd, I had the pleasure of attending the first ever New Jersey Veg Fest. Set at the Hyatt in Morristown, this festival was a cornucopia of all types of vegan goods from clothing, cosmetics, accessories, and of course; delicious food.
In an attempt to try a healthy variety of the cuisine, I enjoyed vegan hot dogs from Yeah Dawg!!!
…banana whip from(think soft serve ice cream made entirely from bananas) from Fresh Press Juice Co based in Cranford, NJ.
….banana bread, and vegan jerky from Louisville Vegan Jerky.
I would have tried everything if it were physically possible but there was just so much. Luckily, most of the food vendors were from local restaurants. That just means I shall have to pay them a visit in the near future.
While sampling the cuisines was a lot of fun, the event was more than just food. Among the non-food related items, there were beautiful faux-leather products, vegan themed t-shirts and tote bags, essential oils, candles that smelled absolutely amazing, bath scrubs, and other beauty products that neither include animal products nor are ever tested on animals. Many of these companies donate a significant amount of their profits toward charities. You can’t argue with great products for an even greater cause.
Also in attendance were volunteers from local animal sanctuaries. These volunteers donate a large amount of their time and effort providing for animals in need of shelter and medical attention. This includes rescuing abused and abandoned pets, and creating safe havens for farm animals saved from slaughter houses, dairy farms, and egg farms.
The dedication and compassion expressed by their actions speaks incredible volumes. It is encouraging to know that our state is home to people who make it possible for these animals to live happy lives and be taken care of.
Veganism is on the rise in New Jersey and it was a thrill getting to know all of the local business owners of vegan/vegan-friendly establishments. Being vegan isn’t always easy depending on where you live, but this event proved that is not the case here. Even non-vegans can enjoy some delicious plant-based food, cruelty-free products, and even a day visiting animal sanctuaries and shelters. While this was the first New Jersey Veg Fest, I am sure it will not be the last. I predict that it will only get bigger from here.
by Kristin Ausume
Kristin is a Jersey Native, born and raised in Bergen County. She studied art and theatre at Fairleigh Dickinson University, as well as a thrilling semester abroad in the U.K. She spends most of her free time drawing, taking photos, and cooking vegan cuisine at home.
