The 16th annual Veggie Fest Chicago returns to Danada South Park, in Lisle, on August 8 and 9, bringing together healthy living, wellness, vegetarian food, music and family-friendly activities for one of North America’s largest festivals. With free admission and parking, the two-day event features expert speakers, cooking demonstrations, yoga and meditation, live entertainment, an international food court and more than 100 exhibitors. We spoke with Veggie Fest volunteer Jonathan Kruger to learn more about this year’s festival and what visitors can expect.
What is Veggie Fest?
Veggie Fest is one of the largest healthy living and wellness festivals in North America. This year marks our 16th annual Veggie Fest, and it is shaping up to be another wonderful weekend filled with talks on healthy living, great food, some of Chicago’s best bands, family activities, a meditation and yoga tent, cooking demonstrations and a strong sense of community.
How many people attend Veggie Fest?
We are expecting 35,000 attendees. We have plenty of room at the event, as Veggie Fest is located in a beautiful, large, tree-filled park with ample free parking within walking distance.
What are some of the highlights of this year’s Veggie Fest?
We offer something for everyone. Whether you’re coming for the food, the music, the wellness activities or the speakers, you’ll find plenty to explore. Veggie Fest features a large international vegetarian food court, live entertainment, family activities, yoga and meditation, cooking demonstrations, healthy living talks, more than 100 exhibitors focused on wellness, sustainability and community living, and free presentations from internationally recognized health, nutrition and wellness experts.
How much does it cost?
Veggie Fest has free entry and free parking.
What makes Veggie Fest special?
Veggie Fest has grown into one of the largest free healthy living and wellness festivals in the world, with visitors returning year after year. What makes it truly special is the energy behind it. The festival is a nonprofit event supported by more than 1,200 volunteers from over 30 countries. The volunteers help create a welcoming atmosphere that many attendees say is one of the things they remember most about the festival.
The weekend is filled with lots of fun events for the family, and it’s considered one of the best-run festivals in Chicagoland.
When and where is Veggie Fest?
Veggie Fest 2026 will be held on August 8 and 9 at Danada South Park, in Lisle, near the intersection of I-88 and Naperville Road. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day. Visitors can park for free in adjacent lots.
How would someone find out more about Veggie Fest?
We have an amazing website with all the activities and schedules at VeggieFestChicago.org.
Are there vendor and sponsorship opportunities?
Of course! Go to the Veggie Fest website and to the tab “Vendors/Sponsors” for more information. It’s a great opportunity to get your company in front of tens of thousands of like-minded individuals.
What would you say to someone that has never been to Veggie Fest?
Whether you’re looking to improve your health, discover new ideas, enjoy delicious food, or simply spend a day surrounded by positive and inspiring people, Veggie Fest offers a welcoming experience for all. We invite everyone to come, explore, learn and celebrate the simple choices that can help create healthier, happier lives and a more compassionate world.
Location: Danada South Park, 2701 Navistar Circle, Lisle. For more information, visit VeggieFestChicago.org
