If your family loves festivals filled with food, fun, and creativity, then Cville VegFest is the place to be this fall! On Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 11AM–4PM, IX Art Park in downtown Charlottesville will come alive with music, laughter, and the delicious aromas of plant-based foods. Even better—it’s free to attend and open to all ages.
Why Families Love VegFest
One of the best things about VegFest is how kid-friendly it is. At IX Art Park, children can run, play, and explore while parents relax knowing the space is safe and welcoming. Bright murals make the perfect backdrop for family photos, and there’s always something engaging happening at every corner of the park.
Here are a few family favorites to look forward to:
- Hands-On Fun – Crafts, face painting, and other activities designed to keep kids engaged.
- Active Play – Yoga and movement sessions that welcome children and parents alike.
- Kid-Approved Snacks – Look for vegan cupcakes, dairy-free ice cream, and other treats little ones will love.
Live Music & Entertainment – Bands and performers bring plenty of energy to keep Cville kids smiling on the Ix stage.
A Festival with Heart
VegFest isn’t just about tasty bites (though there are plenty!). It’s built around values of kindness, community, and care for the planet—ideas that even young children can understand. Parents often find this event sparks great conversations about how our choices affect animals, the environment, and each other.
Plan Your Family Outing
- Date: Sunday, September 14, 2025
- Time: 11AM–4PM
- Location: IX Art Park, 522 2nd Street SE, Charlottesville, VA
- Admission: Free
Parent tip: Bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and maybe a change of clothes for kids who love messy play. A picnic blanket is also handy—you can grab lunch from a food vendor and spread out on the grass to soak in the music.
Not Just for Cville Kids!
VegFest is also a favorite for college students, young professionals, and adults of all ages. If you don’t have little ones in tow, you’ll still love sampling creative vegan dishes, listening to live bands, and joining yoga or wellness sessions. It’s a welcoming community celebration where everyone can discover new flavors and ideas.
Why You’ll Want to Return
VegFest is more than just a day out—it’s a chance to connect with others, celebrate healthy living, and experience the vibrant spirit of Charlottesville. With so much to explore, it’s easy to make this event part of your annual traditions.
Family-Friendly Takeaway
Cville VegFest is a celebration of flavor, kindness, and creativity—perfect for families, friends, or anyone curious about plant-based living. Whether your kids are painting their faces, you’re taste-testing tacos, or you’re simply enjoying music under the murals, you’ll leave with full bellies, happy hearts, and plenty of memories.
Love Food and Fall Fests?
CHARLOTTESVILLEFAMILY EDITORS are locals who care deeply about family and community. We are almost all parents who serve alongside our readers in the PTO and band boosters, coaching sports teams, helping with the school fun fair and more. Our insider perspective, combined with great research and expert input from our wonderful CharlottesvilleFamily Advisory Panel helps us to provide you with trustworthy advice as you raise the next generation of brilliant and compassionate kids.