World Vegetarian Day
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October 1
World Vegetarian Day
Make a difference this World Vegetarian Day - go meatless and enjoy delicious plant-based meals that are good for the planet and your health!
Introduction
Celebrate World Vegetarian Day on Oct. 1 and enjoy the many benefits of a plant-based diet! This day was created in 1977 to raise awareness about vegetarianism and veganism, and to promote a healthier lifestyle for all. Throughout history, vegetarianism has been practiced by societies around the world for religious, philosophical, or health reasons. Whether you’re an experienced vegetarian or just starting out, there are so many delicious recipes that you can try. Eating more fruits and vegetables is good for your health and for our planet – so let’s celebrate World Vegetarian Day with enthusiasm!
World Vegetarian Day Timeline
1806
Vegetarian Society Founded
A group of non-conformist members formed the Bible Christian Church, credited as one of the earliest Western vegetarian societies.
1847
Vegetarianism Goes Official
The first Vegetarian Society was founded in England, officially putting vegetarianism on the global map.
1944
Birth of Veganism
The term "vegan" was coined by Elsie Shrigley and Donald Watson to designate vegetarians who abstain from all animal products.
1969
Meatless Monday Movement
Meatless Monday is born during World War I when U.S. Food Administration encouraged families to reduce consumption of key staples to aid the war effort.
1971
"Diet for a Small Planet"
Author Frances Moore Lappe publishes "Diet for a Small Planet," a book advocating vegetarianism and illustrating how a vegetarian diet could feed more people with less impact on the environment.
1977
First World Vegetarian Day
The North American Vegetarian Society establishes World Vegetarian Day to encourage the vegetarian way of life and promote its benefits for human health and the natural environment.
How to Celebrate World Vegetarian Day
1
Cook a vegetarian meal
Find a great vegetarian recipe and whip up a delicious meal. There are lots of options from lentil soup to veggie stir fry. Get creative and have fun!
2
Try a new vegetarian restaurant
Look for vegetarian restaurants in your area or search online for the best spots in your city. Enjoy some tasty food and explore the vegetarian cuisine.
3
Plan a vegetarian potluck
Invite some friends to bring over their favorite vegetarian dish and enjoy an evening of good food and company.
4
Attend a cooking workshop
Look online for cooking workshops in your area. You'll learn how to make healthy vegetarian dishes and get some new ideas for your own cooking.
5
Organize a veggie garden
Get outside and start growing your own vegetables. Plant some tomatoes, peppers, beans, carrots, and other veggies and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Why We Love World Vegetarian Day
A
It's good for the environment
By reducing or eliminating your consumption of animal products, you can make a positive impact on the environment. Animal agriculture contributes to significant levels of carbon emissions, pollution and water waste - so if you want to do something positive for the planet, World Vegetarian Day is the perfect time to start!
B
It's a healthful way of eating
Going vegetarian not only helps reduce your environmental footprint, but it can also have a direct effect on your physical wellbeing too. Eliminating animal products from your diet can potentially reduce your risk for heart disease, stroke and certain types of cancer - so adopting a vegetarian lifestyle could be one of the healthiest decisions you ever make!
C
It's an opportunity to explore new flavors
Global cuisine offers some amazing flavor combinations that don't include any animal products at all. From Asian dishes like General Tso's tofu and Thai green curry, to Italian favorites like eggplant Parmesan and vegetable lasagna - there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy a meal without meat. So take this opportunity to explore something new and add some exciting veggie dishes to your repertoire!
World Vegetarian Day Dates
Year
Date
Day
2023
Oct 1
Sunday
2024
Oct 1
Tuesday
2025
Oct 1
Wednesday
2026
Oct 1
Thursday
2027
Oct 1
Friday