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Thread: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

  1. #201
    cobweb
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    I'm not being picky or weird or whiney, but i'm genuinely confused - i thought the stall holders would be vegan-run companies/individuals . I must have missed the point as i thought the idea of the whole thing was for vegans to get together in a 'safe haven' to have fun, for vegan stall-holders to publicise their wares/make a few quid (hopefully) and to spread the message to interested non-vegan guest that veganism is do-able and fun!.

    I did take Cookey's point about 'outreach' but it's bizarre to reach out to non-vegans with non-vegan produce, surely .

    All that said, i'm sure it's a very difficult and thankless (or feels like it sometimes ) task to organise and run such an event.

  2. #202
    Pale & skinny Big Good Wolf's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Friends of the Earth, The Green Party and Animals Count were all there as well.
    As far as I know, none of them are vegan organisations or promote veganism.
    Worcestershire's fastest veteran vegan mountain bike endurance racer with a beard.

  3. #203
    cobweb
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    oh, i really hope this doesn't sound too critical but personally i feel a bit less keen about the whole idea now (having been hoping to make it to a vegan fayre perhaps next year).

  4. #204
    Pale & skinny Big Good Wolf's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Don't be put off, cobweb.
    People will always tend to focus on the negative aspects.
    I've mentioned the one disagreeable person I encountered without mentioning all the great people I met there.
    It's easy enough to walk straight past a Green Party stall to go and talk to the Vegan Runners or buy some vegan ice cream.
    It's the fact that it is such a good event overall that makes such minor faults seem so serious.
    Worcestershire's fastest veteran vegan mountain bike endurance racer with a beard.

  5. #205
    Vote VBB veganbikerboy's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    I had a fantastic weekend, both at the fayre and socialising on the Friday night for Gwydions B'day, Saturday night at the Hatchet and then Sunday night at the after show party.

    We went to cafe Kino on Friday and I think they did a good job, they are not set up to do 'large' tables, but they coped really well I thought. I always enjoy the food too.

    Robb then took us to the Thekla, which, despite not being my sort of tunes, I really enjoyed, not sure what time we left but it was late/early

    It was a shame to see fewer stalls there this year, and I suspect fewer people, IMO these things are often made by the people that attend and I had some great company this weekend, the sun and ale helped a little too.

    I have really mixed feelings about the presence of non-vegan stuff at the fayre, ok, in a perfect world it would be all vegan, however the festival has grown to include many non-vegans that dont/wont ever care about what they eat or way they lead their lives, i guess these people probably wouldnt have noticed many of the non-vegan items, so as an outreach event it still works, they still had a good time and a good impression of vegans/ism. we rock. So, I think as long as the festival sticks to its principles and doesnt undermine what its trying to achieve there's no problem, errors or oversights are always likely to happen in this world, particularly at such a large event!

    I suspect if the omni's had the intelligence to spot the non-vegan stuff, they would understand and be vegan anyway

    maybe they only started selling magners(nonvegan) because I drank all the Red Stripe? sorry my fault, again

    Thanks to Phoenix Rising for arranging the YHA, absolute perfect location. And also I think event organisers did a fantastic job, as ever. I hope they have the energy and support to carry on next year.

    Oh, nearly forgot. there were a few VFers who entered the shoulder press comp, of which Destiny has a few Photos. I know Philty Builder won, followed by BGW, I came 4th, which I was impressed with, as I could hardly stand by 4pm sunday hehe Sorry, i know the girls did well but I cant remember how they finished.

    Anyway, as i said, it was a shit weekend, we lost the cup
    I dont get crunchy people?

  6. #206
    my army bradders's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    I think it's ok to have non vegan organizations there if they are relevant to many of us, e.g the green party. The same goes for vendors such as shakeaway who sell dairy shakes as well as vegan ones normally but as they sell vegan ones it is good for them to be at the vegan fayre so that we can see what these companies have to offer us and when outside the fayre enjoy their vegan products. The hope is that they only provide vegan products on site but these things do happen I guess.
    It was still a fabulous weekend and as there was so much vegan food there and so on it was all the better. Having that range of food is something that made it vastly superior to brighton in terms of simple enjoyability but it is a shame that it didn't have quite the same range of stalls etc
    If I sink to the bottom I can run to the shore.

  7. #207
    CATWOMAN sandra's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote cobweb View Post
    oh, i really hope this doesn't sound too critical but personally i feel a bit less keen about the whole idea now (having been hoping to make it to a vegan fayre perhaps next year).
    I agree with you Cobweb, I don't think I would feel happy at a vegan fayre with all that's been reported on this thread.
    I get enough of having to check what I'm eating and buying in my local supermarket without having to do it at a 'vegan fayre'.
    I feel really disappointed and disillusioned by all that I've heard here.
    I like Sandra, she keeps making me giggle. Daft little lady - Frosty

  8. #208

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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    With no offence intended, lovely Sandra, I think that's quite an extreme reaction. The Vegan Fayre was a wonderful, vibrant, positive event - with hundreds of people there, stalls selling vegan food, lots of companies sympathetic to (and keen to extend their links with) veganism, great bands, sunshine... and last year it was even bigger and better. Yes, there were some very small things that weren't vegan - but nothing is perfect, and it was the nearest thing to a Vegan Utopia I've been to. It would be a real shame if you felt that you didn't want to support the Fayre in the future, especially at a time when the organisers are implying that the future is maybe hanging in the balance. Perhaps you might be able to come next time - it would be so fantastic if you could, I'd love to meet you! - and then I'm sure you'll experience how fantastic and positive and VEGAN it really was.

  9. #209
    Festival Buddy Frank's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Just adding to things mentioned earlier.

    There was plenty of non spicy food – physche & chips, chips, beans, burgers, sausages, mash etc were dotted about.

    Numbers for sure are down this year – there is a recession on and people cannot afford a day out even. You could not have guessed that 12 months ago when you started to plan an event.

    I believe in education. How many people came to see the late bands? Quite a few I’ll bet. Most were probably not vegan. But they now understand a bit more about veganism – and plenty tried the food.

    I doubt whether all the band members were veggie or vegan. The organisers could not get enough vegan supporters so had to look to omni/veggie friends – and thank goodness they got a team together.

    Security staff – also are unlikely to be vegan.

    The point is it is impossible to have a ‘completely’ vegan fayre.

    I’d argue for future events that it should be termed Veggie fayre – but that everything should follow a vegan format (as it does now) as best as possible.

    The chances are meat eaters are more likely to go vegetarian than vegan.

    Forget calling it the veggie fayre. I’d call it the Veggie Green Fayre.

    Bring all the green groups in and let their supporters find out that you just can’t be a serious environmentalist and not be vegan.

    Actually, let’s call it the Veggie-Vegan-Green Fayre & Festival (Bristol VEGFEST 2010).

    Maybe the vegan fayre has to change to meet the demands needed to generate enough revenue to survive. Maybe a bit of diversification is needed. Maybe the organisers don’t want to change.

    All I know is I had a great weekend with my buddies at a minuscule cost in contrast to other things I could have done. Gone to a football match (£40 for 2 hours?), gone to the pictures (£8 for 2 hours?).

    You just can’t beat the value at the vegan festivals.
    I Think, Therefore I Am A Vegan

  10. #210
    Vote VBB veganbikerboy's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    i agree with alot you say Frank. But I would not support a veggie festival, its special because aims to purely vegan. I feel that should still be its AIM.

    As i said before, its almost impossible for something of that size to run perfectly, i think the organisers did a fantastic job at difficult time for everyone.
    I dont get crunchy people?

  11. #211
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    so long as everything that can be vegan on site is vegan and that those involved know what it's about and enough people can get through the gate then that's the main thing.
    Having the green party there or sea shepherd (many of their volunteers are omni) and a band that's omni is fine. If it takes music to get people through the gate to be exposed to veganism then so be it. But the aim should be that there is only vegan food and drink etc onsite and that all concerned respect this, that we all enjoy ourselves and everyone has a damn good time and that omnis and veggies can learn about veganism and the issues involved as they stand.
    If I sink to the bottom I can run to the shore.

  12. #212
    Festival Buddy Frank's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote veganbikerboy View Post
    i agree with alot you say Frank. But I would not support a veggie festival, its special because aims to purely vegan. I feel that should still be its AIM.
    I only want a vegan focused festival too.

    However, if there wasn't any vegan festivals any more - i'd still be happy to support a veggie-vegan one.
    I Think, Therefore I Am A Vegan

  13. #213
    Festival Buddy Frank's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote bradders View Post
    Having the green party there or sea shepherd (many of their volunteers are omni) and a band that's omni is fine.
    There is so much education to be had.

    I was disappointed that some of the Sea Shepherd crew stated that when they got into port they were looking forward to a big juicy stake. This is after spending weeks at sea trying to save one animal species from the table - but they were happy to comfortably go to the table and eat another.

    Again, all sorts of environmental type organisations and people can learn more about the whole story out there - not just selected bits that suit one part of an argument.

    Best way to do that is keep bringing them together so we can all learn from each other.
    I Think, Therefore I Am A Vegan

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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Did somebody attend that talk where a female doctor or whatever-the-hell-she-was gave a talk about vegnism and how it change the way she looked at things? I think she was a special doctor that claimed to reverse illness through diet... anyway:

    I got pretty shocked at the way she was contradicting herself all the time, from saying that she was a strict vegan to saying consuming honey was ok for her...

    I really didnt want to put on a show and bit my lip a thousand times to just calm myself down... Im still trying to work out what she was trying to get at... can somebody clarify?

  15. #215
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    I wouldn't support any moves away from a Vegan Fayre. And they would make me less inclined to attend.

    I think any organisations that are likely to be of interest to vegan have a place at the Fayre, even if they're not vegan organisations (e.g. Sea Shepherd, etc.)

    I think that any companies that have a range of vegan products have a place at the Fayre, even if they also have non-vegan products (e.g. Shakeaway). Sure we might not like Coca-Cola, for example, but they should be able to exhibit their vegan products: it's a Vegan Fayre, not an Environmental Fayre. And we shouldn't assume that all vegans share our views on other matters.

    I think that performers and staff (and visitors!) who are not necessarily vegan also have a place at the Fayre.

    However, I think that organisations, companies, performers and staff have a responsibility to respect veganism - and some of the attitudes experienced at the Fayre are at odds with this sentiment. From the accidental (e.g. performers' feathers) to the intentional (e.g. Magners).

    Of course, that's a little difficult to police. Education is probably more appropriate. How would they act at a gay pride or Jewish festival, for example? I'm sure not everyone at such events is gay or Jewish, but they respect those that are.

    But moreover I don't belive that any non-vegan products have any place at the Fayre. I think they damage the Fayre's reputation and risk confusing non-vegans about what's acceptable.

    And I think that it is possible and practical to do much better at ensuring the products available are vegan. From simply checking what stalls are selling, through the penalties that BGW suggests, to actually asking visitors (e.g. on the ticket) to notify the organisers of anything untoward (and how to do so).

    I thought I'd read something from the organisers to the effect of "and of course, it's all vegan" but I can't find this now. Nevertheless, I feel that they've been lucky that the worst they've had to put up with are some disgruntled vegans. But what if the mayo wasn't dairy free, and what if someone allergic to dairy trusted that all the food was vegan..?

    It was a great fayre. And I do look forward to going again. But it's clear that these issues are preventing some vegans from attending, and could have even more serious consequences. So I hope that they will be taken seriously, and that the Fayre is back next year - and truly vegan.

  16. #216
    Festival Buddy Frank's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote Big Good Wolf View Post
    Finally, a request.
    Did anyone get a picture of my Pale Skinny Vegan T shirt and, if so, could you post it here, post it somewhere else and link to it, or email it to me please.
    Okay - I know I took one of you on the stage - and I may have (although I think it was Destiny) took one of you on the steps.

    Either way - they were all taken with Di's camera phone - and I know she will put them up soon.
    I Think, Therefore I Am A Vegan

  17. #217
    Zero
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote Frank View Post
    I was disappointed that some of the Sea Shepherd crew stated that when they got into port they were looking forward to a big juicy stake. This is after spending weeks at sea trying to save one animal species from the table - but they were happy to comfortably go to the table and eat another.
    I was thinking the very same thing last night when I saw an animal rescue program on TV, these people who go out of their way and sometimes put themselves in danger to save the lives of animals only to go home and eat other animals amaze me.

    You'd think they of all people would make the connection wouldn't you???

  18. #218
    BlackCats
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    When I went to the Viva Veggie fair I went to a stall that was advertising green energy and an old guy was quizzing the girl behind the stand and asking her if she was vegan and she said "No, I like my meat." I gave her daggers and walked away (quite childishly!) It did surprise me that she would say that though.

    I think it would be better if the vegan fayre had all vegan produce. I wouldn't expect everyone there to be vegan though obviously, but I think they could try to be for one day or however long they were there. I don't think it's asking too much. It wouldn't stop me from going to a vegan/veggie fayre though. I would still go, I would probably just complain after.

  19. #219
    BlackCats
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote Zero View Post
    I was thinking the very same thing last night when I saw an animal rescue program on TV, these people who go out of their way and sometimes put themselves in danger to save the lives of animals only to go home and eat other animals amaze me.
    I know. It is bizarre. Some animals are worth more than others in their minds.

  20. #220
    cobweb
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    i know, i have worked for people who run animal rescue shelters and don't think twice about eating meat - humans really are so odd.

  21. #221
    CATWOMAN sandra's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote Ruby Rose View Post
    With no offence intended, lovely Sandra, I think that's quite an extreme reaction. The Vegan Fayre was a wonderful, vibrant, positive event - with hundreds of people there, stalls selling vegan food, lots of companies sympathetic to (and keen to extend their links with) veganism, great bands, sunshine... and last year it was even bigger and better. Yes, there were some very small things that weren't vegan - but nothing is perfect, and it was the nearest thing to a Vegan Utopia I've been to. It would be a real shame if you felt that you didn't want to support the Fayre in the future, especially at a time when the organisers are implying that the future is maybe hanging in the balance. Perhaps you might be able to come next time - it would be so fantastic if you could, I'd love to meet you! - and then I'm sure you'll experience how fantastic and positive and VEGAN it really was.
    Oh dear, why is it when I see a post begin with the words.......'No offence intended' I immediately feel anxious?

    I'm sorry if you thought my and Cobweb's reactions were extreme but it's just the way I feel. I'm not saying the fayre wasn't a lovely event I'm just saying I would not feel AS 'at home' at one as I thought I would, knowing that there were non-vegan things there.
    I think we vegans are too quick to accept things, we keep quiet too often and don't express ourselves as we should. Surely there are enough of us to have a completely 'vegan' fayre?
    If not then perhaps we should start off with a smaller totally vegan fayre and wait until there are more numbers to make it bigger and better each year. If the Bristol vegan fayre was advertised as a vegan/veggie/interested omni fayre at least then there would be no ambiguity. People would know what to expect that way.

    Once again Ruby, I'm sorry if you thought I was attacking the fayre............I'm sure I would have a lovely time at it, being among other vegans, but I would prefer not to have to be on the alert all the time for non-vegan food or comments from ominvores.

    Quote Frank View Post
    The point is it is impossible to have a ‘completely’ vegan fayre.
    That makes me feel really sad Frank!

    What is taking us vegans so long? Why aren't there enough of us to have a completely vegan fayre?
    I understand there would be the ordinary everyday things we have to put up with in this world...........like non-vegan security staff, but surely we should be able to have a vegan fayre that doesn't have food etc with animal substances in it.

    I would prefer to go to a much smaller event and be safe in the knowledge that everyone there was vegan and that everything sold there was vegan too.
    Heck, I'd even do the security myself!

    Quote BlackCats View Post
    When I went to the Viva Veggie fair I went to a stall that was advertising green energy and an old guy was quizzing the girl behind the stand and asking her if she was vegan and she said "No, I like my meat." I gave her daggers and walked away (quite childishly!) It did surprise me that she would say that though.

    I think it would be better if the vegan fayre had all vegan produce. I wouldn't expect everyone there to be vegan though obviously, but I think they could try to be for one day or however long they were there. I don't think it's asking too much. It wouldn't stop me from going to a vegan/veggie fayre though. I would still go, I would probably just complain after.
    I totally agree with you BlackCats!

    What you were saying about the girl at the Viva veggie fair saying she liked her meat..............that would really annoy me if someone said that to me at a 'vegan' fayre. That is one of the reasons I wouldn't feel comfortable because I know I would end up in a heated discussion with them. I wouldn't expect to hear those type of views at a vegan event so it would really, really anger me.
    They'd probably have to get the non-vegan security staff to throw me out!

    Once again, I'm sorry if my views on the fayre have annoyed/irritated anyone..........it was not my intention to do so. I am just a little surprised and shocked to find out that the vegan fayre isn't the totally safe haven I thought it would be.
    I like Sandra, she keeps making me giggle. Daft little lady - Frosty

  22. #222
    my army bradders's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    it was supposed to be vegan only produce their and it was against policy for those stands to bring non vegan produce into the site. Had that not happened then I think it would be as vegan as it could be. I don't have an issue with non vegan staff so long as they are properly trained for the event. There are a few issues such as the chemicals in the portaloos have probably been tested on animals etc but there is very little that could have been done about that really.
    Next time if BGW's suggestion is taken up I think that an even better fayre could go ahead with more confidence that the food will be completely vegan.
    If I sink to the bottom I can run to the shore.

  23. #223
    Zero
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote sandra View Post
    I'm sorry if you thought my and Cobweb's reactions were extreme but it's just the way I feel. I'm not saying the fayre wasn't a lovely event I'm just saying I would not feel AS 'at home' at one as I thought I would, knowing that there were non-vegan things there.
    It's your choice/opinion/feelings Sandra, I felt great about the event, even though there was Magners being served, however it was clearly labelled not vegan. As I said this was disappointing but no major shakes.

    I do see where you are coming from, but on the other hand there are so many positives, I don't really like that this thread is begining to become all about the few small things that people don't like about the fayre when there was so much that was fantastic

    Quote sandra View Post
    I think we vegans are too quick to accept things, we keep quiet too often and don't express ourselves as we should.
    Actually I think we vegans are fast to complain about anything that should be, could or once was vegan along with various other things.

    I don't think we lay down and accept things easily. If anything I almost think we should do less complaining in some cases and instead provide more encouragement toward making things vegan. I think many people are doing that.

    This forum shows classic examples of both of the above in a multitude of threads.

    Quote sandra View Post
    Surely there are enough of us to have a completely 'vegan' fayre?
    If not then perhaps we should start off with a smaller totally vegan fayre and wait until there are more numbers to make it bigger and better each year. If the Bristol vegan fayre was advertised as a vegan/veggie/interested omni fayre at least then there would be no ambiguity. People would know what to expect that way.
    It would be great if you got something rolling with other vegans on organizing an event like this We certainly need more of them, but as others have said you won't get all vegan bands (unless you mostly punk bands), security etc. They are a real struggle to organize and cost a lot of money and time, you are lucky if you break even with the current financial crisis, also many organizations aren't being as generous with donations because of this.

    These events give veganism a face, and a huge in your face kind of face at that! It is a great form of outreach. I would rather organize one festival or event (even if it is only 99% vegan) than say 100 anti fur demos (just as an example). There's no doubt in my mind these events show that a vegan lifestyle is possible and have likely turned countless people vegan.

    (Not knocking those who do demos, some demos can be fairly useful, however they rarely make new vegans)

    Outreach is most important thing to me in terms of activism (my opinion/experience).

    Quote sandra View Post
    What is taking us vegans so long? Why aren't there enough of us to have a completely vegan fayre?
    I understand there would be the ordinary everyday things we have to put up with in this world...........like non-vegan security staff, but surely we should be able to have a vegan fayre that doesn't have food etc with animal substances in it.

    I would prefer to go to a much smaller event and be safe in the knowledge that everyone there was vegan and that everything sold there was vegan too.
    Heck, I'd even do the security myself!
    The problem is that you often need to SIA certified security staff (required by councils/venues etc) some venues will insist on their own security. The likelihood of finding Local, SIA certified, available and vegan security is not particularly good by any means.

    You also need a certain amount of first aiders, and you run into the same issues as with the security.

    There is a world full of non vegan products out there and the bigger you try to make the event and the more stall holders the more likely you are to have a bit of non vegan stuff slip through.

    I think it is safe to say that organizers are doing the best they can and are organizing events as vegan as possible within the means available.

    Well I've rambled on enough, hope some of that info is of use/interesting

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    CATWOMAN sandra's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    All very valid points Zero!

    Maybe the solution is to rename the fayre........'The veggie/vegan fayre'...........at least then people like me would know what to expect.
    I like Sandra, she keeps making me giggle. Daft little lady - Frosty

  25. #225
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    So did anyone see the Blockheads?

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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    yes
    If I sink to the bottom I can run to the shore.

  27. #227
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote sandra View Post
    All very valid points Zero!

    Maybe the solution is to rename the fayre........'The veggie/vegan fayre'...........at least then people like me would know what to expect.
    I don't really see the need for that to be honest.

    At the present time I think there is as much chance of organizing 100% vegan fayre (including all vegan staff, security, bands etc) as there is of finding a unicorn, but we can always live in hope I suppose

    With these things one must look at the intention and the execution, the idea to have a vegan fayre/festival is a great one and if an event fell slightly short of the intent I don't think we should demand the name be changed, you will always run into problems and hitches along the way, that is just how these things go.

    As we open more peoples minds by keeping the word vegan out there in the public eye we raise the awareness to the reasons for ethical veganism and push it closer to mainstream, we will not achieve this by making our events smaller and further out of the public eye.

    Lets face it, the more people we make vegan the more successful these events could be. If we really think about it veganism is less about us and more about the plight of animals and we won't be doing them any favours by scaling back our efforts even if our efforts do not achieve perfection.

    Even if a couple of products get through that aren't vegan and we can't get all vegan bands, stall holders, security etc it would do far more damage to change the name of such events to veggie.

  28. #228
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    I think it would be silly to get upset about non-vegan security, etc, that wouldn't be an issue for me, personally. I was shocked that there weren't enough vegan stallholders, though - so that some of the stalls were run by non-vegans. That suprises me. I would have thought there would be lots of vegans with businesses or charities or ideas that would love a place to promote them, and to meet lots of 'captive' shoppers .

    That's actually not a gripe but merely a spoken thought/pondering.

  29. #229
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    one problem is that in these recession times potential vegan stallholders held off as they just couldn't afford the cost. Sad but true and it's not like it would be easy to lower the costs either. But having stalls from companies that offer vegan products (within the site only the vegan products should be available of course) is also great and organizations that many vegans support such as the seashepherd concervation society (who follow a vegan diet on mission) should be welcome too. The bands are there for entertainment/ get people through the gate, yes it would be great if they were vegan but that's not always possible unfortunately.
    But as has been said before if these issues are taken on-board and looked at for the next one (oh please let there be one) then it will be even better and who knows maybe people will have more money for things like this next year. If anyone knows of a broad range of vegan bands who won't charge the earth then please recomend them.
    If I sink to the bottom I can run to the shore.

  30. #230
    CATWOMAN sandra's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote Zero View Post
    Lets face it, the more people we make vegan the more successful these events could be. If we really think about it veganism is less about us and more about the plight of animals and we won't be doing them any favours by scaling back our efforts even if our efforts do not achieve perfection.
    I agree.

    Quote Zero View Post
    Even if a couple of products get through that aren't vegan and we can't get all vegan bands, stall holders, security etc it would do far more damage to change the name of such events to veggie.
    I was just imagining a situation where I took my 4 sisters along to the 'vegan fayre' and they saw that some food contained honey and other animal products, they would get a very confused idea of what veganism is all about.

    As I said before would it not be better to have a much smaller event and make it 100% vegan? :smile:
    I like Sandra, she keeps making me giggle. Daft little lady - Frosty

  31. #231
    my army bradders's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    those products shouldn't have been there anyway. I didn't see those items but had someone informed the stewards I'm sure that they would have been withdrawn quickly.
    If I sink to the bottom I can run to the shore.

  32. #232
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Focusing on the positive there were many vegan things around in this bad economic time they still pulled together good show, helped by the sun, I caught up with some great people, faces old and new.

    I also questioned any new sellers about there stance and declined there product if they were not at least veggie or aiming for vegan. That way it was polite and they understood how vegans like to shop etc, it was well received taking that approach.

    I was lucky enough to stick to Stowford Press Cider whilst they has it in stock, other than that we drank a few of the Suma vegan real ales from the tent inside, ice cold and good deals done when we bought rounds :0)

    My one and only complaint is from a pure cider drinker that means it must be vegan, chemical free and sweetener free, how can Magners be called Cider it's cack not the proper job youngun'
    Go confidently in the direction of your dreams

  33. #233
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    the same reason the try to pass off koppaburg etc as cider suger, carbonated water, ethanol, 3% apple juice, a string of E numbers and flavourings is not cider but they seem somehow to get away with calling it that.
    If I sink to the bottom I can run to the shore.

  34. #234
    CATWOMAN sandra's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote bradders View Post
    those products shouldn't have been there anyway. I didn't see those items but had someone informed the stewards I'm sure that they would have been withdrawn quickly.
    It would be nice to think that would be the case.

    I'll shut up now and leave this thread...............I'm sorry if I've come across as negative but I can't help feeling very disillusioned by it all.
    I like Sandra, she keeps making me giggle. Daft little lady - Frosty

  35. #235

    Talking Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    ok well...
    I was really surprised to read that there were some non-vegan things at the vegan fayre, such as honey/baklava... Me and my boyfriend did discuss the dancers' feathers, but came to the conclusion that 'they must be fake' (because of where we were). but who knows now.

    anyway, if a couple of non-vegan things slipped through the net, yes that's really annoying and not ideal, but all the positivity of the fayre totally over-rides this, for me anyway.

    I went on saturday with my (mostly vegan, I'm working on it ) boyfriend, and we really enjoyed it, it being our first time at the Bristol one. The choice of food was amazing, the best by far for me was the thali stall. wow, delicious. there did seem to be a lot of spicy food (as someone said), not a bad thing, and maybe i naturally gravitate towards this kind of food..!

    the best thing for me though was that on sunday, completely unplanned, my (omni) brother decided to come (we were staying with him in Bristol as we're from Brighton). this was brilliant, as he didn't even know all the ins and outs of veganism before this weekend, and had no prior experience of veganism. he loved all the tasters, and tried loads of the food on offer, and really enjoyed the day. am very chuffed about this, and I feel this is a very important aspect of an event such as this- getting non-vegans to experience all the joys of being vegan and hopefully plant a tiny vegan seed in their minds.

    me and boyfriend will definitely attend again and I feel it is so important for vegans to support these events.

    peace xx

    ps. i had the mayo from the 'something fishy' van and it was definitely vegan! x

  36. #236
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote veganbikerboy View Post
    I believe Destiny has a photo of me with the vegan police

    Yes, am just about to post it along with other good photo's


  37. #237
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote Big Good Wolf View Post
    Finally, a request.
    Did anyone get a picture of my Pale Skinny Vegan T shirt and, if so, could you post it here, post it somewhere else and link to it, or email it to me please.

    Not sure !! but is this u in the Vegan bodybuilding competition ??


  38. #238
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote Frank View Post
    Okay - I know I took one of you on the stage - and I may have (although I think it was Destiny) took one of you on the steps.

    Either way - they were all taken with Di's camera phone - and I know she will put them up soon.

    Yes you are right frank, VBB has just been over to my place and educated me on posting photo's so am in the process but as i am still moderated for some reason so there is a delay, but between us we got some cracking photo's

    Seems to be more of VBB than anyone else though ( he is such a poser ) LOL x

  39. #239
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    This was my very first Vegan Festi and i had a completely wicked time !!

    To be with so many like minded , very lovely people, surrounded by so much choice of gorgeous food and products, I was in a personal heaven !!

    Great to meet folks from the forum and put faces to names - u lovely lot !!

    It was my birthday on the friday along with gwydion, so the birthday meal at cafe kino ( which was fab ) was a fantastic start . The weather was perfect for me as i am a sun worshiper !! The music was great only slightly dissapointed by the blockheads but then Ian Dury is a hard frontman/ act to follow.

    Photo's on the way !! Looking forward to the next meet-up /fayre / festi/ meal

  40. #240
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    I noticed that the beer tent had baileys amongst the other things, but didn't really notice anything else to be honest. (But then I do tend to walk around with my eyes shut most of the time!)

    All in all I really enjoyed the meeting up of forum peeps, being around other people who were mostly vegan, enjoying lots of vegan food, mainly junk in my case, and the trying of new things that I thought would never be veganised (battered sausages).

    I think that despite the few things that slipped through the net, it was a great fayre that was really enjoyable. I have to be honest that I prefer the London festival but that doesn't mean it wasn't still a great fayre. There's nothing like being in a vegan environment, around other vegans. A few things here and there that aren't vegan, even in a vegan fayre, don't detract from the enjoyment that much for me although it is disappointing to think that we may still have to be a bit cautious in an environment that is supposed to be 'safe' from label-checking etc.

    Sandra, I think you should still go to a festival to see what it's like, and just soak up the atmosphere. I reckon you would really enjoy it! (And we'll all keep you company )
    No sense being pessimistic. It wouldn't work anyway.

  41. #241
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Destiny, yes, that's me. Thanks for posting.

    Sorry to be a bit picky, but did you get one with the writing visible. I'm a bit vain and shallow you see.
    Worcestershire's fastest veteran vegan mountain bike endurance racer with a beard.

  42. #242
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Quote Big Good Wolf View Post
    Destiny, yes, that's me. Thanks for posting.

    Sorry to be a bit picky, but did you get one with the writing visible. I'm a bit vain and shallow you see.
    Big good wolf, Its not vain and shallow ! thats a wicked t-shirt but soz did

    not get one of the writing, " next time "

    Some more photo's on the other thread under meet-ups

  43. #243
    Festival Buddy Frank's Avatar
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Update from the organisers of the fayre:


    ‘’Big thanks to all our visitors for visiting the BVF 2009, it was the best yet for the organisers, lovely people, great stallholders, and very much a quality scenario.

    The authorities were once again very impressed and there were no reported major incidences of theft, violence, aggressive behaviour, lost kids, or any other reported problems, and the feedback from the police, council, security, in fact all the authorities involved, was most excellent, and also from the stewards and organising team. Stallholders feedback has been excellent too, and also the public – in the main.

    In short, it was an organisers dream.

    We even managed a close on break even for the second year running, about a grand short of the target, without a wage for Tim the organiser, but with everyone else getting paid if they wanted.

    The vibe was awesome and the quality and attitude of the entertainers was brilliant – everyone turned up on time and put in really excellent performances.

    We even got compliments about the toilets this year, which was particularly heartening for Brenda, our toilet cleaner for the 6th year running.

    So thanks peeps for making it a truly fantastic weekend out for all of us.

    The show is never perfect and we are always striving to improve, although it might not look like it to all of you, but you always let us know the pluses and minuses - and this feedback is welcome.

    Every BVF has always had some non vegan products appear, it’s always been the same, and we have dealt with these as best we can as quickly as we can.

    In this year’s case, the stall selling honey and butter baklava had booked in the night before. True to say, we hadn’t had time to vet them before hand, but - our on-site team spotted the scenario early Saturday and all non vegan items were removed at this point.

    The silk turned out to be fake silk as far as we can tell, and the Something Fishy Stall was definitely vegan mayo.

    The barman got up at 5am on Friday and drove 70 miles to get the only vegan cider he could source, and when he ran out Sunday he couldn’t find a vegan cider in Bristol, restocked with Magners and put a sign up to warn people. Now that was actually thoughtful of the bar manager. However it did not adhere to our rules for the event.

    Once again - our staff spotted the issue and it was dealt with, albeit not as quickly as some would have liked. The Magners was off the bar at this point and no longer on sale. All the other alcohol was checked and it was all vegan except an unopened bottle of baileys.

    As far as we know, that was it with regards to non vegan products.

    We always try and prevent non vegan products from being on sale at the BVF and always fail. Its not easy but if we hear or spot it we do act upon it immediately.

    Sometimes mistakes are made and we are clearly human and not perfect. I make mistakes and so do my team. I take full responsibility for my actions and also those of our team.

    Anyway, on that note, blessings in abundance to all of you guys that work towards an end to animal suffering and people suffering and environmental suffering from the abuse of livestock. Together, we do make a difference.

    Ps big thanks to all Vegan Forum/Fitness members especially those who helped, including Cookie, Big Good Wolf, Pete Bodybuilder and Stevie P – respect to all.’’
    I Think, Therefore I Am A Vegan

  44. #244
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Thanks for posting this Frank. Sounds very positive to me.

  45. #245
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    positive and great. thanks again to all involved
    If I sink to the bottom I can run to the shore.

  46. #246
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Thank you Frank I have always enjoyed the Vegan Fayre and will always support it 100% mistakes are not to be criticised or frowned upon they are there to overcome and correct. Long live BVF I say and all it's amazing positives which far outweigh any of the negative comments that have or may be coming in. :0)
    Go confidently in the direction of your dreams

  47. #247
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Excellent feedback, Good to know it was a success , ' certainly felt like it at the time !!

    Look forward to same again next year for our joint birthday,Gwydion !!


  48. #248

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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Really glad that it was a relative financial success, even in the toughest of economic climates. Looking forward so much to next year.

  49. #249
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    That sounds very positive and hopefully there will be BVF 2010? Il be there all weekend next year if Its on my thanks to all the organisers/staff for all their very hard work.

    I had a brilliant weekend

  50. #250
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    Default Re: Bristol Vegan Fayre 2009

    Thanks for that Frank, great to hear!! Many spanks to all the organisers/staff etc.

    Quote Destiny View Post
    Look forward to same again next year for our joint birthday,Gwydion !!
    Definitely!
    Let the music mend our minds. Let the music bend our minds.

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