Under the hot July sun, families and friends gathered this past July 14 at Daniel Rice Field in Bethlehem during the eighth annual VegFest Street and Food Festival. The festival theme was vegetarian and vegan food accompanied by non-profit organizations and retail vendors.

Everyone in attendance opted to try meatless meals while listening to live music and grabbing informational pamphlets from animal rights activists, pig rescuers, and environmental activists. Food trucks and food stations recreated classic dishes, minus animal product ingredients. (And added meat replacement ideas)

Not only were there vegan burgers and desserts, animal-free clothing and skin care products were also on display and for sale. Animal-friendly knic knacks and crafts for children were also available.

Bethlehem’s very own Vegan Treats Bakery catered to a long line of individuals anxious to devour their vegan pastries which included cannolis, cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more.

“I am a vegetarian, but I am interested in going vegan,” said Jailene Santiago of Bethlehem.

“All of this great food is showing me that I need to transition my diet. Did you see PeeWee the pig over there? Seeing a live farm animal just made me open my eyes and view animals in a totally different light.”

Although veganism is a personal choice, the amount of open-minded omnivores simply interested in trying the food, wearable items, and listening to the activists was overwhelming.