NEWCASTLE'S first all-vegan market returns to The Station on Sunday, October 6, after a successful debut in August that left organisers "blown away".
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The inaugural event is estimated to have attracted between 5000 and 8000 people who worked their way around 60 stalls offering vegan and cruelty-free food, fashion, beauty and health products.
"It really took us all by surprise," Newcastle Vegan Market co-ordinator Dylan Weir said.
"We didn't really know what to expect and it was five times what I had anticipated. It was mind-blowing."
In an effort to cater for the large crowd expected, the bi-monthly market is returning bigger this time with an additional 10 stalls, including extra fresh food options.
"Our first market was incredibly busy and I feel like a few people were disappointed because they missed out on food, which is unfortunate," Weir said.
"So this time there will be a lot more vendors."
From sausage rolls, pies and cheesecakes to Thai street food, souvlaki and Southern-fried burgers, Weir wants to spread the word that vegan food is not limited to salad and vegetables.
Among the vendors are Southern Soul, serving fried tenders and mac and cheese; Newcastle's all-vegan pub restaurant, Winnie's; Mad Dogg Kitchen (see side panel story); Sydney dessert company CreamFork; and gelato maker Space Bars.
"I think anyone who comes to our market expecting to just find the healthiest food in town is probably going to be pretty disappointed because vegan food doesn't always have to be healthy," Weir said.
"It can be very delicious. There's a lot of sweets and comfort food, like burgers."
The event is an initiative of organisation Vegan NSW.
Weir said the public response to the market reflected the growing popularity of vegan food. There are plans to make it monthly in 2020.
"It has really grown and become a lot more accessible than it used to be. I'm vegan now and when I think back to 10 years ago, there's no way I would have imagined myself being vegan."
The markets will also feature homewares, coffee, fashion, live music and educational TENT Talks.
Dog owners are encouraged to bring along their pups to the event, with dog yoga sessions in the afternoon.
- Newcastle Vegan Market, The Station, Newcastle East, Sunday, 9am to 4pm. Free entry.
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