Toronto Vegetarian Association facts for kids

The Toronto Vegetarian Association (TVA), also known as VegTO, is a group that helps people in Toronto, Ontario. It is run by volunteers and is a charitable organization. Founded in 1945, its main goal is to inspire people to choose a healthier, greener, and more compassionate lifestyle. They do this by encouraging plant-based eating. This means choosing foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans.

The Big Veg Food Fest

Since 1985, the TVA has hosted a huge event called the Annual Veg Food Fest. It happens every September at Harbourfront Centre in Toronto. Over 40,000 people visit this festival each year. It is the largest event of its kind in the world. This festival has even inspired similar "VegFest" events in other places, like the United States. Visitors can learn about vegetarian topics and try many different plant-based foods.

Other Cool Projects

The Toronto Vegetarian Association runs several other helpful projects. They offer information and support through their website. They also have a resource centre where people can drop in to get answers. Plus, they have a directory of businesses in Toronto that offer vegetarian-friendly options.

Veggie Challenges and Events

The TVA also organizes special campaigns. One example is the Veggie Challenge. This challenge encourages people who don't usually eat plant-based to try a vegetarian or vegan diet for one week. In 2015, they held the 7th Totally Fabulous Vegan Bake-Off. Over 500 people attended this popular event. Also in May 2015, the 6th Veggie Parade marched through downtown Toronto. It ended at Kensington Market.

Seasonal Markets

As of 2019, the Toronto Vegetarian Association also hosts two annual markets. They have a Veg Spring Market in April or May. They also hold a Holiday Market in late November. These markets are great places to find plant-based products and gifts.

Meatless Mondays in Canada

In 2010, the Toronto Vegetarian Association teamed up with Earthsave Canada and Lundi Sans Viande. Together, they launched a Canadian Meatless Mondays campaign. This campaign encourages people to go meat-free one day a week.

Becoming a Member

You can become a member of the Toronto Vegetarian Association with a small yearly gift of $25. Members receive a special Toronto Veg Card. This card gives discounts at over 120 restaurants and health food stores across the Greater Toronto Area. Members also get a subscription to the organization's magazine, Lifelines. This magazine has articles about vegetarian restaurants, cookbooks, fashion, nutrition, and more. Throughout the year, members can also attend special events. These include bus trips to local farmed animal sanctuaries.

See also

• List of vegetarian and vegan festivals
• North American Vegetarian Society
• International Vegetarian Union
• List of vegetarian and vegan organizations