(Photo courtesy of Boston Vegetarian Food Festival)
The Boston Vegetarian Food Festival has been held in Roxbury for the past 14 years.
During the past few years, Boston has seen an increase in the number of vegetarian eateries and advocacy groups, as well as a heightened focus on local and natural eating. It's a shift that is expected to lead to an increase in the number of attendees at this weekend's Boston Vegetarian Food Festival, held at the Reggie Lewis Athletic Center in Roxbury.
“We are expecting anywhere between 20,000 and 25,000 people over the course of the weekend,” said Evelyn Kimber, president of the Boston Vegetarian Society, which sponsors the festival, held in Roxbury for the past 14 years.
“The Boston community really has a growing interest in vegetarian and vegan dining. One of the things we are so happy about is that the festival draws such a diverse audience from all communities and all ages," including a large contingent of college-aged students.
Kimber said she believes younger adults have a growing awareness of the “ethical and environmental significance of their food choices."
“Students are more aware now than ever before of the health benefits of plant-based eating,” said Kimber. “When students learn that meat and dairy production contributes more to global warming than all transportation combined, they want to do something positive, and making earth-friendly food choices is something they can do every day."
The festival, which includes vendors from Boston, is a chance for vegetarian natural food providers, national experts and chefs, and exhibitors to teach the community about living a vegetarian lifestyle.
Attendees will be able to sample free food, as well as shop and purchase items at discounted prices. There is a focus on international foods.
“International cuisines are very rich in plant-based foods,” explained Kimber. “In an area like Roxbury, which may not have as many exclusively vegetarian restaurant options, international cuisine is a good choice. Indian, African, Mexican, Asian—all are heavily plant-based and great options for vegetarians."
One local vendor, Roxbury Crossing-based Norma’s Catering, has been a popular exhibit at the festival for years. The catering company focuses on Latin foods, and will bring items such as tofu empanadas and yellow rice for festival attendees to sample.
Area colleges have groups that promote vegetarian and vegan eating. Northeastern University’s Vegetarians United aims to promote a vegetarian/vegan lifestyle, as well as build awareness of animal-friendly products, while Boston University’s Vegetarian Society meets regularly to discuss and eat vegetarian cuisine.