What if you could attend vegan festivals outdoors all year, eat mushroom “scallop” sushi, and even meet adoptable rescue animals—all in one trip?
Welcome to San Diego.
From Side Hustle to 200+ Events: Michelle’s Vegan Journey
Michelle May, founder of Viridian Productions, didn’t plan to build one of the most exciting vegan event companies in California.
But today, she has produced over 200 fully vegan events across Southern California.
Her journey started with small local markets. Now, her events bring together food, wellness, education, and community in a powerful way.
She is part of a growing movement showing that vegan living is not just possible—it’s exciting.
Why San Diego is America’s Vegan Event Capital
San Diego has one big advantage: the weather.
You can host outdoor events here all year. That means more festivals, more markets, and more chances to explore plant-based food.
For travelers, this makes San Diego one of the best places in the world for plant-based travel in California.
There is always something happening.
Signature Festivals: EarthFest, VegFest & Sustainable Markets
If you are planning your trip, these are the key San Diego vegan events to know:
San Diego EarthFest
- Held at Balboa Park
- The world’s largest all-vegan Earth Day festival
- Around 15,000 attendees
- Focus on sustainability, food, and education
San Diego VegFest
- Takes place in September
- Free entry
- Speakers, food vendors, and wellness activities
- A celebration of all things plant-based
Oceanside Sustainable Food Festival
- Located in North County
- A growing vegan hub near the coast
- Perfect mix of locals and tourists
Monthly Markets
- Night markets and day markets every month
- Live music, vendors, and community vibes
- A great chance to meet locals and try new food
Here are the regular San Diego vegan events you can plan your visit around:
San Diego Sustainable Night Market
1st Friday every month | 5pm – 9pm
AleSmith Brewing Company
North Park Sustainable Market
2nd Saturday every month | 12pm – 4pm
North Park Mini Park
Vista Sustainable Night Market
3rd Friday every month | 5pm – 9pm
Local Roots Boochyard
Beyond the Plate: Animal Adoptions & Community Building
These events are not just about food.
They are also about compassion.
Many events include rescue groups like A Way Home for Dogs and Desert Catopia. You might even meet adoptable animals while you visit.
This creates a powerful connection between vegan living and real-world impact.
San Diego’s Must-Visit Vegan Restaurants
San Diego has a growing vegan food scene with something for everyone.
Vegan Mirai Sushi: Torched “Scallops” from Mushrooms
Whole-food sushi made with trumpet mushrooms. It looks like seafood—but it’s all plants.
El Taquero Vegano: Mexican Classics Reinvented
Think jackfruit tacos and shiitake fillings with bold flavors.
Peace Pies: The Raw Vegan Survivor
A rare raw vegan restaurant still thriving today. Fresh, creative, and very unique.
Kindred: Thriving for a Decade Without Vegan Branding
A popular restaurant that attracts both vegans and non-vegans. A great example of how plant-based food is becoming mainstream.
Nature & Wildlife: Hikes, Beaches & Sea Lions
San Diego is not just about food.
You can explore nature in many ways:
- Visit Farm Animal Refuge near Campo
- Go hiking using the AllTrails app
- Explore beaches and coastal views
- See the famous La Jolla sea lions (look, don’t touch!)
You can go from beach to mountains to desert in just a short drive.
Getting Around: Car-Free Options in SoCal
You don’t always need a car in San Diego.
Here are your options:
- The Coaster train runs along the coast
- Trolley and bus systems connect the city
- Uber and Lyft are easy to use
If you stay near the coast, getting around is simple.
The Mainstream Shift: How Veganism Became Aspirational
Veganism is changing.
It is no longer seen as strange—it is becoming something people want to try.
Michelle explains that many people are now “pre-vegan.” They are curious and open to change.
This shift is helping vegan businesses grow and reach more people.
✨ Closing Thoughts
San Diego shows what the future of vegan travel can look like.
It is not just about food—it is about community, animals, and experiences.
Vegan events here are not niche. They are vibrant, welcoming, and growing every year.
Plan Your Visit
Find upcoming San Diego vegan events at Viridian Productions or follow @viridianproductionssd.
Learn More About What is Discussed on the Podcast
- What makes San Diego VegFest so special and worth traveling for
- Inside the biggest festivals like San Diego EarthFest and San Diego VegFest
- How Viridian Productions creates events that welcome both vegans and non-vegans
- Why San Diego is perfect for plant-based travel in California all year round
- The role of vegan events in helping “pre-vegans” discover plant-based food Michelle’s favorite vegan restaurants, including Vegan Mirai Sushi, Peace Pies, and Kindred
- How animal rescue and adoption are part of these community events
- Tips for visiting San Diego, including transport and outdoor activities
Other World Vegan Travel Content Connected With This Episode
- Vegan Food Scene in Washington D.C. From a Local
- Vegan Travel in San Diego | Food, Culture & Coastal Adventures
- Vegan Budget Travel with Calen Otto | 200th Episode
- Vegan Miami Uncovered | Culture, Cuisine & Hidden Gems
- Discover Delaware with Salisbury House B&B | Michele
- From Flight Attendants to Full-Time Travelers
- Discover the Vegan Oasis: Black Sheep Inn & Spa
- Rancho Vegano: A Gateway to Tucson’s Natural Wonders | Colin Eosom
