Vegetarian Food Festival Features Jason Wyrick

The third annual Arizona Vegetarian Food Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., January 28 and 29, at the Scottsdale Civic Center Amphitheater, with diverse plant-based vendors, speakers, entertainment and activities for all ages.

Jason Wyrick, executive chef at The Vegan Taste, is the first vegan instructor to teach in the Le Cordon Bleu program. In 2001, he defeated Type 2 diabetes and lost more than 100 pounds by going vegan. Pastry chef and author Fran Costigan is an internationally renowned authority on vegan desserts.

In addition to the speakers, food demonstrations and plant-based vendors, there will be information tables from such nonprofit organizations as the Animal Defense Fund, Save Movement, Share International, Humane Project and Compassionate Farming Education Initiative.

Attendees range from vegetarians and uber-healthy eaters to the veg-curious and serious omnivores. They will also enjoy musical entertainment and fitness activities, including yoga classes for kids and adults. There is a special kids area devoted to activities for children.

Admission is $30 or $50 for both days; VIP $75; under 10 free. Location: 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale. For tickets and a full schedule, visit AZVegFoodFest.com.