The UK has become a haven for plant-based living, with vegan festivals growing in popularity across the country. These events are more than just food fairs—they’re celebrations of sustainable living, ethical choices, and delicious plant-based cuisine. Whether you’re a committed vegan or just curious to explore a greener lifestyle, here are some of the best vegan festivals in the UK that you won’t want to miss.
1. Vegan Life Live – London & Manchester
This major event, organized by the team behind Vegan Life Magazine, is one of the UK’s largest vegan festivals. It brings together plant-based brands, inspirational speakers, and cooking demonstrations, offering everything from vegan street food to cruelty-free beauty products.
📅 Dates: Usually held in Spring (London) and Autumn (Manchester)
📍 Locations: Alexandra Palace (London) & Manchester Central
🎟 Highlights:
- Live cooking demos from top vegan chefs
- Panel discussions on plant-based nutrition and activism
- Ethical shopping with sustainable fashion and cruelty-free skincare
2. The Great Yorkshire Vegan Festival – Leeds
This festival is a must-visit for plant-based food lovers in the north. Featuring over 100 stalls, it’s packed with delicious street food, health-conscious products, and eco-friendly innovations. The festival also supports animal charities, making it a great way to give back while indulging in tasty treats.
📅 Dates: Annually in Summer
📍 Location: Leeds Town Hall
🎟 Highlights:
- Tasting sessions of innovative vegan dishes
- Free talks on plant-based living
- Family-friendly activities and workshops
3. Vegfest UK – London & Brighton
One of the UK’s longest-running and biggest vegan festivals, Vegfest UK is a vibrant gathering of plant-based enthusiasts. With a huge lineup of exhibitors, guest speakers, and entertainers, it’s the perfect event for anyone interested in veganism, health, and sustainability.
📅 Dates: Usually in October (London) and Spring (Brighton)
📍 Locations: Olympia London & Brighton Centre
🎟 Highlights:
- Live music, comedy, and entertainment
- Vegan bodybuilding and fitness showcases
- Massive variety of food stalls and international vegan brands
4. Bristol Vegan Fayre
Bristol is known as one of the UK’s most vegan-friendly cities, and its Vegan Fayre is a testament to that. This festival is all about plant-based indulgence, featuring mouth-watering food, informative talks, and a lively atmosphere.
📅 Dates: Annually in June
📍 Location: Bristol Harbourside
🎟 Highlights:
- Vegan street food from around the world
- Inspirational talks on sustainability
- Ethical fashion and handmade crafts
5. Northern Vegan Festival – Manchester
This festival attracts thousands of visitors every year, offering a mix of food, activism, and ethical shopping. With stalls ranging from vegan cheese specialists to organic skincare brands, it’s a paradise for conscious consumers.
📅 Dates: Usually in Spring
📍 Location: Manchester Central
🎟 Highlights:
- Vegan beer and cocktail bars
- Workshops on sustainable living
- Music, entertainment, and social spaces
6. Scottish Vegan Festival – Edinburgh & Glasgow
Scotland’s top vegan festival showcases the best of plant-based innovation, ethical living, and delicious food. With a strong focus on animal rights and environmental sustainability, it’s a fantastic event for both vegans and those curious about making the switch.
📅 Dates: Typically held in Spring & Autumn
📍 Locations: Edinburgh Corn Exchange & Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
🎟 Highlights:
- Local and international vegan cuisine
- Panel discussions on climate change and ethics
- Artisan vegan products from Scotland and beyond
7. Vegan Camp Out – Nottinghamshire
For those who love the festival atmosphere, Vegan Camp Out is a unique, weekend-long outdoor event. Combining live music, wellness activities, and inspiring talks, it’s the biggest vegan camping festival in the world.
📅 Dates: Usually in August
📍 Location: Nottinghamshire countryside
🎟 Highlights:
- Vegan food village with over 50 vendors
- Yoga, meditation, and fitness workshops
- Talks from top vegan activists and influencers
Final Thoughts
From intimate community markets to massive nationwide festivals, the UK is home to some of the best vegan celebrations in the world. Whether you’re interested in food, activism, health, or simply looking for a fun day out, these festivals offer an amazing opportunity to explore the plant-based lifestyle in an exciting and welcoming environment.
Mark your calendar and get ready to experience the best of the UK’s vegan scene! 🌱✨