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Santa Monica is set to host the worlds first vegan Oktoberfest this weekend, with more than 3,000 thirsty guests expected to celebrate in a cruelty-free environment.

We want Vegan Oktoberfest to combine the fun and appeal of a widely beloved event Oktoberfest with the compassion of animal lovers, said organizer David Edward Burke.

Too many events fall into only one of two categories; either they dont appeal to vegetarians or vegans at all because animal products are such a big part of the event, or they appeal only to vegans and vegetarians because they event is so narrowly focused on the animal friendly aspect, he added.

Vegan Oktoberfest will take place on Saturday, Oct. 4 and promises to recreate the feel of a genuine German beer hall featuring live Oompah bands, Bavarian maidens, and of course, refreshing and delicious vegan craft beer poured to perfection by dozens of great breweries.

We wanted to create an event that combines the best of both worlds, Burke said. Vegan Oktoberfest will give vegans and vegetarians their first opportunity to enjoy a traditional Oktoberfest celebration while showing our other guests that they can still enjoy all the elements of Oktoberfest; great food, great beer, and great people, without any animals being harmed.

Participating food vendors include many of Los Angeles most acclaimed vegan restaurants. Sage Organic Bistro will prepare potato pancakes, cauliflower hot wings, and German-style soft pretzels. Southern Fried Vegan will offer Fried Chickun and Mac N Cheeze, and Urban Pie will showcase sausage and potato pizzas.

While the food and beer will be vegan, the rest of the event is truly an authentic Oktoberfest celebration, according to the organizers.

Keeping with the Bavarian theme, entertainment will include a live traditional music, stein holding contests, chicken dancing, yodeling contests and more.

Attendees are also being encouraged to don traditional German attire, with most of the event staff also clad in Bavarian beer maiden outfits and lederhosen.

The rest is here:
Vegan Oktoberfest Comes To Santa Monica Beach Saturday