SAM OWENS | Gazette-Mail file photo

Tomi Bergstrom serves food during last years Meatout Monday supper at Bluegrass Kitchen on March 21, 2016.

The spring equinox marks the start of a new season. It brings about new life in nature and, in some cases, makes a great time to try something new.

On Monday, Bluegrass Kitchen at 1600 Washington St. East in Charleston is giving the community a chance to try veganism.

The annual Meatout Monday event is a part of nationwide Great American Meatout events, billed as cruelty-free dining experiences.

It takes place from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Chris Higgins, a member of the Kanawha Valley Vegan Potluck group, said its great for someone who isnt vegan to try it and for those who are vegan to hang out together.

Vegans used to just have one or two options on places to shop and eat, he said. Now, you can go to a supermarket and they have a whole aisle dedicated to natural foods.

The entire menu that night will feature meatless, dairy-free foods and items prepped without the use of animal products. The food is all plant-based.

Open-mic night performances of live music or poetry will be held, and there will be coupon giveaways.

Bluegrass Kitchen also will run the feature specials all week long. Reservations for Meatout Monday are recommended.

The Kanawha Valley Vegan Potluck group correspondingly will have its annual MeetUp Monday at Bluegrass Kitchen the same evening. The group typically meets for potlucks to share food created by its members. Around the spring equinox each year, the group has a larger outreach event such as Meatout Monday.

This is for all ages and just a bigger chance for people to get together, Higgins said.

Reach Anna Taylor at anna.taylor@wvgazettemail.com, 304-348-4881 or follow @byannataylor on Twitter.

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Meatout Monday offers vegan menu for all - Charleston Gazette-Mail (subscription)