Celebrating its fourth year, the popular VeganFest, featuring world-class vegan and animal rights experts, delicious food and lifestyle products, will be held from June 8 to 10 in Asheville. Guest speakers on Friday and Saturday will include 11-year-old Genesis Butler—the youngest-ever TEDx speaker—who has advocated for exploited animals since she was 6; Asheville-based Lauren Vaught, a chef and expert in whole-food, plant-based nutrition; and Stephanie Romine, a vegan and a health coach specializing in weight maintenance.

Also, workshops are set for Friday and panel discussions on Saturday. On Sunday, the festival goes outdoors to Pack Square Park with 100-plus vendors showcasing vegan food, beer, lifestyle products and more. There’ll also be live evening music at the legendary music hall.

The free festival is hosted by the largest state no-kill animal rescue organization, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, with its new Asheville Vegan Outreach campaign. More than 10,000 attendees are expected, providing many connections with many vegans, activists and others interested in living a more compassionate and environmentally friendly lifestyle.

 

Locations: June 8-9: The Orange Peel, 101Biltmore Ave. June 10, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Farmers Market /Vendor Festival, Pack Square Park, 80 Court Plaza. Visit VeganFest.BWAR.org for schedule and parking information. Dogs not allowed; backpacks and coolers not allowed in event spaces.