Miami Vegandale Festival

Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle or you’re simply a foodie in search of delicious, healthful food, the Miami Vegandale Festival returns to Greater Miami & Miami Beach this spring. The festival takes place on Saturday, November 23, at Amelia Earhart Park, located in Hialeah. 

In case you’re unsure exactly what eating “vegan” entails – following a vegan diet means the food can only come from plants such as veggies, grains, nuts and fruits. Anything that comes from animals, including eggs and dairy products, is a no-no.

Many people across the world are now following a plant-based lifestyle, and chefs are continuously improving food substitutions. Interestingly, many of the festival’s attendees are non-vegan, and everyone is welcome at Miami Vegandale Festival – which has come to be known as “North America’s Fastest Growing Vegan Festival.” “Vegandale is an experience that welcomes all to re-envision what veganism actually looks like,” says Hellenic Vincent De Paul, founder and president of the festival.

Read on for details on the 2023 Vegandale Festival

What To Eat

You’ll want to come hungry, as there will be more than 100 vendors from across the country and beyond. Some of the must-try vendors include Snackrilege from Oregon, known for its “Lord of the Wingz Sammie.” There’s also DeepFriedWatermelon, hailing from the Philippines, and Lettuce Fest from California. Sweetening the event are vegan dessert vendors like Nelly’s Fried Creamery from Sunrise, Florida, known for its fried ice cream and decadent milkshakes; Pure Vegan Cakes from West Palm Beach; A Cookie Called Quest from Canada, which offers home-baked cookies with unique flavors; and Cleveland’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream. Local favorites will be there too – including Planta South Beach, Just Juice Miami and Roots Miami Kava Bar & Eatery.

Many of the chefs stray from their original menus and create something new for this unique festival. Some vendors will be serving full-size portions, so if you want to sample everything offered at the festival, planners suggest splitting your portions with friends and family to get a little taste of everything.

Beyond the Food

Vegandale is known for its over-the-top art installations, and this year they’ll have multiple new additions for epic photo ops. Meanwhile, a live DJ and MC will keep the party going as they play tunes, host games and offer giveaways on stage throughout the day.

There will also be vendors selling innovative food and lifestyle products, as well as contests to enter, and clothing and merch to purchase. Of course, you'll be snapping fun photos for social media, and you can share them on Instagram @vegandalefestival and use the hashtag #Vegandale on the day of the festival.

Tickets

This is an all-ages event and children ages 12 years old and younger are admitted for free. To avoid disappointment on the day of the event, you’re encouraged to buy your tickets ahead of time before they sell out.

Tips and Tricks for Enjoying the Festival

Many vendors will be accepting cash only, so be sure to bring cash if you plan on making your rounds. There will also be ATMs onsite if you run out.

Because sustainability is key, attendees can bring their own reusable cutlery and dishes, as well as water bottles, which can be filled at various water stations. Seating is limited, so bring a lawn chair or a picnic blanket.

Attendees should dress for the weather and pack sunscreen, a hat, and a raincoat if showers are expected.

Finally, come hungry and ready to be blown away by how good vegan cuisine can taste.

By: Angela Caraway-Carlton