The 21st annual Richmond VegFest will be held from noon to 6 p.m., October 5, at Wlliam Byrd Park, with more than100 vegan-friendly vendors offering food, drinks and products, as well as live entertainment on three stages. Attendees can enjoy cooking demonstrations, speaker sessions and performances. A dedicated "Kids Patch" area will provide activities such as arts and crafts and face painting.

The festival aims to promote a plant-based lifestyle for reasons ranging from health and environmental sustainability to reducing animal suffering. It offers a fun and inclusive environment for everyone in the Richmond area to explore the benefits of vegan living. In case of light rain, the event will proceed as planned, but severe weather may postpone it to October 6. Parking is available in the Dogwood Dell lot and along certain streets in Byrd Park.

Admission is free and leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome. For more information, visit VeggieFest.org.