dc vegfest

DC VegFest 2009 – A Free Star-studded Vegetarian Festival

DC VegFest 2009: A Free Star-studded Vegetarian Festival

September 8, 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 8, 2009) – Vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike are welcome at the DC VegFest, a free outdoor festival on Sat., Sept. 12 celebrating the many benefits and flavors of vegetarian cuisine in and around the nation’s capital.

WHAT: DC VegFest, online at www.DCVegFest.com
WHERE: University Yard at George Washington Univ. (2000 block of H St., NW)
WHEN: Saturday, September 12, from noon to 6:00 p.m., rain or shine

Co-organized by Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organizations, Compassion Over Killing and the Vegetarian Society of D.C., this star-studded event features:

  • Rory Freedman, co-author of the best-selling book, Skinny Bitch
  • Kenneth Williams, an award-winning vegan bodybuilder,
  • Michael Greger, M.D., nutrition and public health expert,
  • Wendy Rieger, NBC4-DC news anchor,
  • Senator Jamie Raskin, Maryland State Senator and new vegetarian,
  • Tracye McQuirter, public health nutritionist and author, and
  • Mimi Clark, chef and food preparation instructor

“Choosing vegetarian foods is one of the best ways we can protect our health, the planet, and animals,” says Erica Meier, Executive Director of Compassion Over Killing. “The DC VegFest highlights just how fun, easy, and delicious it is to feast on meat-free fare.”

Festival-goers will learn how to prepare tasty and healthful vegan meals; meet representatives from nonprofit groups specializing in vegetarianism, animal advocacy, politics, nutrition, environmental concerns, and fitness; explore a wide range of food options from local veg-friendly vendors; and shop for an array of natural, vegan products, such as cosmetics, shoes and clothing, and companion animal treats. Also, the first 400 visitors will receive a free commemorative bag filled with food samples, coupons, and information about vegetarian eating.

“So many people today are exploring more responsible diets,” says Vegetarian Society of DC President Saurabh Dalal. “DC VegFest has something for everyone so bring your family and friends to learn what the buzz is about.”#

Compassion Over Killing (COK) is a nonprofit animal advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C. Since 1995, COK has worked to end the abuse of animals in agriculture through undercover investigations, public outreach, litigation, and other advocacy programs. On the web at COK.net.

The Vegetarian Society of DC (VSDC) promotes the benefits of vegetarianism through educational and community-building activities throughout the Washington, D.C. area, including Maryland and northern Virginia. Founded in 1927, VSDC is the nation’s oldest continuously operating vegetarian society and welcomes people wherever they are on the path toward an all-plant-based diet. On the web at VSDC.org