This Vegan Festival is coming to Belfast - and it looks amazing

The Irish Vegan Festival takes place at Belfast Waterfront in Lanyon Place on Saturday May 13, bringing with it a myriad of stalls selling hot and cold food, cosmetics, clothing and crafts, and a packed programme of demonstrations, music and talks.

The festival is one of a hit series of events organised by charity Farplace Animal Shelter as a way of raising funds for the rescue, bringing vegans together, and encouraging non-vegans to sample the lifestyle and learn more about potentially making the switch.

Organisers have previously held an event in Belfast’s Ulster Hall, but it proved such a massive success the team have moved the festival to a bigger venue to avoid being swamped and turning people away.

Kerri Turner, events manager for Farplace, explained: “We’re really excited about coming back to Belfast. Everyone is welcome - this definitely isn’t just for people who are already vegan; meat-eaters and vegetarians are particularly welcome to come along, try something different, sample some products and find out more about a lifestyle free from animal products.

“But, of course, it’s also a great event for vegans to meet, learn more about products, services and projects that are out there, and stock up on supplies and treats.”

The event comes as veganism has seen a massive increase in Northern Ireland and across the UK in recent years, with figures released by The Vegan Society last year revealing that there were more than half a million vegans in the whole of the country - an increase of 360% from 2006 to 2016.

The Irish Vegan Festival runs from 10.30am to 5pm on Saturday at the Belfast Waterfront, with VIP and Disabled Entry from 10am.

Tickets cost £2.50, under 16s get in free. For more information, to book a stall or buy tickets in advance to avoid queuing, visit irishveganfestival.com.