Overview: Wellness and community

The upcoming 14th annual Twin Cities Veg Fest highlights keynote speaker John Lewisโ€™s message on health equity, breast cancer risk-reduction rallies, and free Metro Transit access for community members.

Credit: Twin Cities Veg Fest

Explore the benefits of plant-based living at the 14th annual Twin Cities Veg Fest at St. Paul’s Harriet Island Regional Park.

Organized by Compassionate Action for Animals, the free festival invites the community to sample plant-based comfort foods, participate in wellness activations, enjoy local music, and learn from local and national wellness leaders.

Health influencer, author, and entrepreneur John Lewis headlines this yearโ€™s festival, sharing his message on plant-based living, social justice and health equity. Lewis plans to address systemic health disparities that disproportionately impact Black and Brown neighborhoods.

โ€œJohn brings an energizing and welcoming message: Positive choices can transform our own lives while building healthier, more compassionate communities,โ€ said Laura Matanah, executive director of Compassionate Action for Animals.

Beyond food trucks and cooking demonstrations, the festival hosts the Let’s Beat Breast Cancer Rally, bringing together medical experts, physical therapists, and survivors to share risk-reduction tips.

Event details

  • When: Sunday, Sept. 20 | 10 a.m. โ€“ 4 p.m.
  • Where: Harriet Island Regional Park (200 Dr. Justus Ohage Blvd., St. Paul)
  • Schedule Highlights:
    • 10 a.m. โ€“ Gates open; first 100 attendees receive sponsor swag bags
    • 10:30 a.m. โ€“ Free outdoor yoga class with Kim Milligan
    • 3:30 p.m. โ€“ Winner of the 2026 Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge announced

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