When several vegetarians and vegans on the staff at radio station FM 102.1 wanted to connect with others of similar leanings in their community, their efforts flourished into what has become the VegOut Health Fest, to be held this year on Saturday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Miller High Life Theater, in Milwaukee.

Now in its second year, the FM 102.1 VegOut Health Fest will feature more than 50 merchants and vendors offering wellness information, products and services; healthful food; educational lectures presented by health experts; and beer, wine and cocktails. FM 102.1 will broadcast live during the event and offer prizes and giveaways.

VegOut Health Fest showcases the diversity that exists in the healthy lifestyle marketplace. From food and fitness, to consumer products and medicine, people can explore different viewpoints and approaches to health at the event. “VegOut Health Fest is meant to be inviting, inclusive and perhaps most of all—fun,” enthuses Todd Hall, promotions and event director for Milwaukee Radio Alliance, which owns and operates FM 102.1. “So, regardless of dietary choices, medical beliefs or lifestyle, we want all attendees to feel welcomed and respected.”

Hall believes the event has grown in success primarily because organizers strive to keep the “fun” aspect at the forefront of planning, and try to include many different vendors. “There are plenty of options for everybody,” Hall adds. The vendors include restaurants and caterers; holistic and traditional health practitioners; and home improvement contractors, as well as those offering personal care items and pet products.

Hall says they will have about a dozen local restaurateurs and artisan food businesses supplying vegan and vegetarian dishes. Those participating include Angelic Bakehouse, known for their sprouted grain bread, rolls, wraps and pizza crust; Brunch; Pizza Shuttle; Ally’s Bistro; Hot Tamale 414; and Smart Cookie Vegan. Tapuat Kombucha, of Door County, will be on hand with their creative kombucha flavors. Levy Restaurants, the in-house caterer for the Miller High Life Theater, will feature craft beer, wine and cocktails at the bar.

Alternative wellness practitioners confirmed to appear include Advantage Chiropractic and The Curious Apothecary. Pet lovers can learn about healthy food, treats, toys and grooming supplies for their fur babies through vendors such as Pet Supplies Plus.

FM 102.1 radio will broadcast live, with multiple prize giveaways and raffles throughout the day. “There will be educational lectures on various topics, food sampling, fitness groups, and lots of different things to experience and try while you’re there,” Hall says, “and, of course, in Wisconsin, it’s always important to have a full bar.”

Last year’s inaugural VegOut Health Fest drew 2,000 people, Hall says, so organizers moved the event to the Miller High Life Theater, which fit their needs. The rotunda can accommodate up to 4,000 people, with enough room to comfortably arrange multiple vendor areas, and the space has a separate section to host the lectures. The venue is centrally located near a freeway, and there’s parking available.

Cost: $5 for adults; kids ages 12 and under free. Location: 500 W. Kilbourn Ave., Milwaukee. For more information, visit FM1021Milwaukee.com.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer the regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.