The 13th annual Richmond Vegetarian Festival will be held from noon to 6 p.m., June 20, at the Azalea Gardens at Bryan Park. There will be food, speakers, live music from The Yes Team and Thomas Coleman and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. The festival is presented by Vegan Action, and Natural Awakenings of Richmond is an official sponsor.

The Veggie Fest, with a mission to expose people to the vegetarian lifestyle in a festive atmosphere, has plenty to offer in the way of vegetarian and vegan foods. Two dozen local restaurants will provide some of the best cuisine around, including Indian (India K' Raja), Thai (Thai Top Ten), vegetarian sushi (Sticky ToGoGo), pizza (Fired Up Pizza) and frozen desserts from DeLuca Gelato and Soul-Ice Vending.

In addition to the 100-plus vendors and non-profit organizations, speakers include Derek and Marcella, from Vegan Muscle and Fitness, and Kristin Lajeunesse, from Will Travel for Vegan. Animal rights and rescue organizations such as Mercy For Animals, Richmond Animal League, Farm Animal Rights Movement and Hope's Legacy Equine Rescue will also be represented.

Admission is free and currently vaccinated, leashed, dogs are welcome. For more information, visit VeggieFest.org.