On a mission to make vegan mainstream, Berkeley festival grows

The Bizerkeley Food Fest, now in its fifth year, expands to a week-long celebration of vegan culture from September 1-7, 2025. Kicking off with a screening of “They’re Trying To Kill Us,” the festival will include a diverse range of events and culminate in a large festival at the North Berkeley BART station. Organizer Erika Hazel, known as Bizerkeley Vegan, aims to mainstream vegan products, with attendance rising from 1,000 in 2021 to an anticipated 7,000-10,000 this year. The festival will showcase over 80 vendors, including popular food trucks and a silent auction featuring local businesses. Activities include a pickleball tournament, a fashion show, and live performances, ensuring entertainment for all ages.

Hazel highlights the festival's inclusivity, inviting meat eaters and vegans alike to explore vegan options. The festival features prominent vendors like El Compa Vegano and Voodoo Vegan, along with local breweries hosting a beer garden. This expansion reflects a growing interest in plant-based diets within the community.