A GROUP that runs a regular Wokingham vegan market, drew big crowds to Reading’s Forbury Gardens for its Vegan Fiesta.
Sparkle Vegan Events and Reading Vegan Festival offered the thousands of people who came, a range of cruelty free foods and products to explore.
The event was very successful, with organisers already planning how to accommodate greater demand at future festivals.
Sarah Zeneli, who runs Sparkle Vegan Events, said: “It was fantastic – the best we could have hoped for.
“The sun shone for most of the day, with only a tiny sprinkle of rain, and the atmosphere was wonderful.
“Last year’s festival was very busy, but this time it was even better, with thousands visiting.”
There was plenty to entertain at the free entry fair, with vegan street food to try, artisan stalls to browse, and workshops to join.
A free yoga session was provided by The Yoga Man, for those who brought a yoga mat.
And band, BFriendly, entertained the crowds with live reggae music and audience participation.
Sarah’s chosen charity for the event, International Animal Rescue, held a plant potting workshop for adults and children.
“They did very well on the day,” said Sarah.
“They were well supported, and happy with how things went.”
The festival boasted more than 40 stalls, selling hot foods, cakes, patisseries, jewellery, homeware, and eco gifts.
“A number of the stalls sold out,” Sarah said.
“And despite a number of hot food stalls, queues to eat were sometimes long.
“I’d like to thank everyone for their patience.
“Now that we’ve realised just how popular the event is, we’ll plan to have even more stalls available next time, so there shouldn’t be similar waits in future.”
With the weather favouring them, festival goers were able to picnic in the gardens, taking in the happy atmosphere.
“We’ve had such good feedback from people about the stalls and the music,” added Sarah.
“It was great to see people sitting in the sunshine enjoying the feel-good vibes.
“There were lots of familiar faces, but plenty of new ones too.
The festival is beginning to make a name for itself, and it really bodes well for our next event in September.”
For more information, visit: www.sparkleveganevents.com
