This two-day celebration highlights vegan innovation, health equity, and community empowerment in Rochester.
Get ready, Rochester! Two local nonprofits—Rochester VegFest and Black, Brown, and Diverse Plant-Based People for Equity Inc. (BBDPPE)—are teaming up once again to bring a plant-powered weekend of advocacy, innovation, and celebration to the city. Mark your calendars for August 23–24, 2025, and prepare for back-to-back events spotlighting the rise of the plant-forward movement in Western New York.
Rochester VegFest Returns to Parcel 5
Rochester VegFest is back and bigger than ever! The free outdoor festival will take over Parcel 5 with a full day of vibrant vegan festivities. Expect a jam-packed lineup featuring top plant-based vendors, inspiring speakers, cooking demos, and family-friendly activities—all celebrating sustainable, ethical living.
This year’s headliners include Dr. Thomas M. Campbell II, Dr. Jim Loomis, and filmmaker Adam Durand. Attendees can also enjoy a free morning yoga session, tasty vegan eats, and live sets from local musicians Sage Bava and ROB.DOE. Plus, don’t miss a dynamic panel of local vegan entrepreneurs closing out the day.
Confirmed vendors include Spirit and Abundance, Polska Chata, Sweet Farm, and the Compassion and Cucumbers Vegan Podcast, with sponsors like Sweet Pea Plant-Based Kitchen, Happy Earth Tea, and MetroPops supporting the cause.
2nd Annual Plant-Forward Achievement Awards and Anniversary Gala
The celebration kicks off the night before with the 2nd Annual Plant-Forward Achievement Awards and Anniversary Gala, presented by BBDPPE and sponsored by Excellus. This elegant evening honors plant-based pioneers and raises funds for health equity and food justice initiatives.
This year’s Plant-Forward Innovator Award goes to Naijha Wright-Brown—Executive Director of the Black Veg Society and co-creator of Vegan Soulfest. Her advocacy through Unchained TV and Naijha Speaks continues to elevate voices within the movement.
Rochester businesses Impact Earth and Abundance Food Co-op will also be recognized. Stay tuned for ticket info and additional honorees!
