WILMINGTON — Last year, Wilmington’s inaugural VegFest took place the same weekend as the Azalea Festival. Still, with the timing conflict unplanned by its organizers, the event attracted over 1,000 people.
This year, Wilmington VegFest will have its own weekend downtown.
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“Logistically, it was somewhat of a nightmare. It was Looney Tunes,” Helene Greenberg VegFest’s organizer, said.
Hoping to see 2,000 or more visitors, Greenberg has curated a lineup of plant-based professionals for “education day.”
Wide range of speakers
Lisa Andree, spokesperson for the event, said Greenberg sought out eclectic and high-caliber representatives of a plant-based lifestyle. “The folks that she’s getting to come in are just really across the board interesting and very accomplished,” Andree said. “It’s an impressive collection of folks.”
On education day, visitors can expect to see the vegan rapper, Grey, founder of “Plant Based Drippin.” His wife, chef Nikki, is also a featured speaker for the event.
A whole food plant based physician, Dr. Judy Brangman will also give a talk. Brangman is dairy-free and endorses a vegan lifestyle. James Lucas, vegan graphic designer, Korin Sutton, a vegan bodybuilder is also scheduled to present on education day.
Plant-based lifestyle
According to Andree, discussion topics will include dispelling common vegan myths. One of the most common, she said, is where to source protein.
“You never hear of anyone suffering from a protein deficiency,” Andree said about those who adopt a plant-based lifestyle.
Speakers will discuss responsible ways to fulfill nutritional needs outside the realm of animal products. Especially today, with more vegetarian and vegan options on the rise, Andree said speakers will help visitors understand what’s out there.
“Now, the products available are mind-boggling,” she said.
With six VegFests in total, split between five states, Greenberg said the reception in Wilmington is positive. “I kind of love Wilmington because no other city is so excited about the event,” she said.
Education day — a free event — will take place on Saturday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Events! On Front. The following day, the event will host a festival with 50 vendors at the Coastline Convention Center. Keep up with the Wilmington VegFest on its website and Facebook page.
Update Feb 14: Leilani Münter, a professional race car driver, was originally scheduled to present on education day. She is no longer available, according to Greenberg.
Send tips and comments to Johanna Ferebee at johanna@localvoicemedia.com
