By Ioanna Tzima

Whether you’re contemplating switching to a meat-free diet or are already a vegetarian and want to stop using animal products altogether, the Vegan Life Festival in central Athens this weekend might be a good place to start.

Taking place on Sunday, this is the second installment of an event that celebrates cruelty-free products and lots of delicious vegan and raw food prepared by professionals – from chia seed pudding to avocado mayonnaise – at the Technopolis cultural complex in the Gazi district.

The festival also includes various talks, information points, fun activities for children and, of course, stands with a wide selection of vegan products and treats, including food from some of Greece’s best vegan and vegan-friendly chefs.

The event – which welcomed 6,500 visitors to its inaugural edition last year – is not just preaching to the converted. It aims to educate the general public about the health, ethical and environmental benefits of a vegan lifestyle. Those who have already embraced the philosophy will also be at hand to answer questions, talk about their experience and explain how they introduced such a radical change into their lives – usually prompted by ethical considerations.

*This article was first published by ekathimerini.com on 06/07/2017