When I saw Tampa Bay VegFest was being held down the street from my house I was so excited!  My mom came over around lunch time and we walked over to Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park to see what the event was all about.

Upon our arrival, we bumped into lots and lots of dogs.  Adoptable dogs. Adopted dogs.  Herds of really stinking big white dogs.  Can you say Never Ending Story??

I’m not a super huge dog person, but my mom and I had such a good time walking around and looking at all of the cute mutt combos.  My favorite was the chihuahua/Italian greyhound combo.  I wish I had a picture, she was so darn sweet.

When we arrived at the food area, I was surprised to see a larger vendor turnout than the food truck rally.  And although the lines were still long, they were much more manageable than the rally.

I was beyond pleased with the event and even more pleased with my No Steak Panini from Joe’s Oat Patties stand.  I was craving something a little heftier in the bread department, but after I finished the panini, which was more like a quesadilla, I was the perfect level of satisfied full.

I’m so proud of Tampa and Tampanians alike for supporting community events lately!  Have you seen an increase in community events in your town?