Berkeley is about to host its fifth annual food festival that’s challenging everything you thought you knew about vegan cuisine. The Bizerkeley Food Fest is returning, promising to transform plant-based eating from a niche lifestyle to a culinary experience that can satisfy even the most dedicated carnivores.

This year’s event will feature over 90 food and beverage vendors transforming classic meat dishes into delectable vegan alternatives. From plant-based versions of KFC bowls to Jack in the Box tacos and even vegan oxtails, the festival is proving that sustainable eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor.

Event organizer Erika Hazel is on a mission to break down stereotypes about vegan food. “We are the minority,” she explains, “but I want to bring people together to defeat the stigma that vegan food is only for vegans. It’s just really good food”.

Beyond incredible cuisine, the festival offers more than just eating experiences. Attendees can enjoy a Rivian electric car show, an Eco Sports Pickleball Tournament, and even an adoption zone featuring local animal rescues - including an exciting “adoptable snakes” section.

Tickets are affordable, with general admission at just $5 and kids 17 and under entering free. VIP options provide early entry, cooking demonstrations, and additional perks for those wanting a premium experience.

Musical entertainment will be provided by SF native StunnaMan02, performing a clean version of his viral hit “Eat a Salad” - a playful nod to the festival’s plant-based ethos.

Located at the North Berkeley BART station, the festival makes accessibility a priority. Hazel encourages attendees to use public transit, saying, “You have no excuse. Go park at Del Norte, El Cerrito Plaza, Richmond, and just BART over”.

The festival runs from 12-6 pm on Sunday, September 7th. Her final advice? “Come with an open mind and empty stomach”.