Vegan Festival Adelaide Returns To Its Grass Roots This December

Vegan Festival Adelaide returns to Rundle Park/Kadlitpina this December with the theme Grass Roots – aiming to bring veganism back to basics and reconnect the philosophy with its purpose: the animals, our planet and human health.

Held on Saturday 5 December from 12-8pm, the festival brings together close to 50 stalls, with some of those setting up shop including Adelaide Vegan Pies, Taco Cartel, GANG GANG and Swizzle Drinks.

The day also features influential speakers, cooking demonstrations at the Plant Powered Kitchen, workshops, local music from vegan musicians and activities for the whole family. Four-legged visitors are welcome too, with the Dogs Are the Best People zone offering a space to celebrate our canine companions.

Leading the culinary line-up is Shannon Martinez, the celebrated chef behind Melbourne's Smith & Daughters and Smith & Deli, familiar to television audiences through her appearances on MasterChef Australia. She will be joined by Dan McKernan, founder of Michigan's Barn Sanctuary and star of Saved by the Barn, who is now living in the Adelaide Hills.

For Festival Director Lea McBride, Grass Roots is about bringing people together and making compassionate choices feel achievable.

"We can't control everything happening in the world, but we can choose how we treat the animals and the planet we share," says McBride.

"The reasons behind veganism are serious, but there's so much joy in discovering how delicious, easy and fun it can be. Sometimes it starts with a simple ingredient swap in a meal you already love."

READ MORE: The Scenic Hotel's Harvest Party Returns This Spring

Established in 2007, Australia’s longest-standing vegan festival has been recognised with the City of Adelaide’s Sustainability Award (2018), Community Event of the Year (2022) and the Community Achievement Awards’ Small Business Award (2024).

Since its inception, it has helped people understand veganism and continues to champion compassion through education, entertainment and a great day out.

"Bring your questions, bring your friends and bring your appetite," says McBride. "We want people to leave feeling connected, inspired and perhaps surprised by how easy their next kind choice could be."

Vegan Festival Adelaide takes place at Rundle Park/Kadlitpina on Saturday 5 December. Grab your ticket here.