August 18, 2024
The 13th Annual Twin Cities Veg Fest is almost here — and our speaker lineup is packed with inspiring voices, powerful stories, and practical ideas for a kinder world. These talks will open your eyes to what’s happening in our food system and how we can make it better for everyone — people, animals, and the planet. Once again the festival will be at Harriet Island Park in St. Paul from 10 am- 4 pm on September 21.
Sierra Carter – Healing People, Culture, and Communities
Where: American Vegetarian Association Speaker & Cooking Demo Tent
When: 10:30–11:15 a.m.
Sierra Carter believes true healing starts with connection — to our bodies, our communities, and our heritage. She founded HEAL MPLS, The Zen Bin, and Casa Ecuador to promote wellness, plant-based eating, and the preservation of cultural traditions.
At the festival Sierra will share how her work empowers Black and Brown communities to reclaim their health through plant-based foods, self-care, and community support. She’ll also talk about why cultural identity matters in the wellness space and how we can make it more inclusive.
Sierra is also the Social Impact Leader for Rhymesayers Entertainment, where she uses music as a tool for justice and healing. Her work blends activism, art, and everyday practice in ways that inspire action.
🌱 Visit The Zen Bin
📸 Follow HEAL MPLS on Instagram
Austin Frerick – Lifting the Curtain on America’s Food Industry
Where: American Vegetarian Association Speaker & Cooking Demo Tent
When: 1:30–2:15 p.m.
Who really controls our food — and what does that mean for farmers, animals, and the environment? Austin Frerick has spent years finding answers to these questions. He’s the author of the book Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America’s Food Industry. The award-winning book reveals how a few giant companies dominate our food supply and the harm that causes.
In his festival talk, Austin will explain how factory farming affects animals, workers, and our health — and highlight farmers and advocates who are fighting back. The discussion will be moderated by CAA’s Kelso Anderson, so you can expect a lively, thoughtful conversation with ideas for real change.
Austin’s knowledge comes from years in public service, including work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Treasury, and Yale University. He has also advised presidential candidates on food policy.
📖 Visit Austin’s website
🐦 Follow Austin on X (Twitter)
Meet the Moderator – Kelso Anderson
Kelso Anderson, Program Assistant for Compassionate Action for Animals, will moderate Austin Frerick’s session. Kelso has been part of many CAA events, including Twin Cities Veg Fest and the Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge, and is passionate about building a better future for animals.
More to See in the American Vegetarian Association Tent
In addition to our two incredible speakers, the AVA Tent will be a hub of learning and flavor all day long. Watch top chefs cook delicious vegan dishes, ask questions, and taste the results. At 3:30 p.m., don’t miss the announcement of the Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge winner — after weeks of competition, you’ll be among the first to hear who takes the crown!
About Twin Cities Veg Fest
The Twin Cities Veg Fest is the Midwest’s largest celebration of plant-based living, hosted by Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA), a local nonprofit founded in 1998. At CAA, we encourage people to cultivate empathy for animals This year’s 13th anniversary festival theme is Cultivating Compassion, Harvesting Change — a reflection of how individual choices can add up to a healthier, more compassionate world.and move toward a plant-based diet.
At Twin Cities Veg Fest, you’ll find:
- Around 100 exhibitors with vegan food, products, and information
- Cooking demonstrations from top local chefs
- Inspiring speakers from across the country
- A family area with activities for kids
- Live music and entertainment throughout the day
Everyone is welcome — whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just curious. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged! Entry is sliding scale, with a suggested donation of $5 per adult and $2 per child. No one will be turned away due to inability to pay. With over 5,000 people expected, it’s the perfect place to eat amazing food, meet new friends, and learn more about plant-based living.
Stay tuned for updates at Twin Cities Veg Fest and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news, mouth-watering previews, and behind-the-scenes fun.
