World Vegetarian Day, on October 1, celebrates vegetarian eating and the benefits it can offer for health, animals and the environment. It also kicks off Vegetarian Awareness Month in October. Whether you're a lifelong vegetarian, someone who eats less meat, or simply curious, it's a great day to try a delicious meat-free meal, from bean chili and vegetable curry to pasta primavera and veggie burgers.
History of World Vegetarian Day
Vegetarianism has ancient roots. In India, traditions such as Jainism, Hinduism and Buddhism have long encouraged nonviolence toward animals, and many followers avoid meat. In ancient Greece, the philosopher Pythagoras promoted a meat-free diet; before the word 'vegetarian' was coined, people who avoided meat were often called Pythagoreans.
The Vegetarian Society was founded in England in 1847, helping popularize the word 'vegetarian'. In the United States, the American Vegetarian Society was founded in 1850. Over the following century, vegetarian ideas spread through health reformers, religious groups and writers.
In 1977, the North American Vegetarian Society established World Vegetarian Day, and the International Vegetarian Union endorsed it in 1978. Today, plant-based foods are widely available, and many people follow vegetarian, vegan or 'flexitarian' diets.
Vegetarian cooking has also been shaped by religious traditions in the United States. Seventh-day Adventists, for example, have long promoted plant-based diets, and their health reformers influenced American breakfast foods in the late 1800s. Today, plant-based eating continues to grow, with restaurants and grocery stores offering more options than ever.
Why World Vegetarian Day Matters
Vegetarian diets can be healthy and balanced when well planned, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts.
Many people choose vegetarian meals for ethical reasons related to animal welfare or for environmental reasons, since plant-based foods generally require fewer resources to produce.
The day also celebrates the delicious variety of vegetarian cuisine around the world, from Indian dal and Middle Eastern falafel to Italian eggplant Parmesan and Mexican bean tacos. Even people who eat meat can enjoy trying new plant-based dishes.
Eating more plant-based meals can also be budget-friendly. Beans, lentils, rice, oats and seasonal vegetables are among the most affordable foods, and they can be combined into hearty, satisfying meals. Trying one vegetarian dinner a week is an easy way to explore new flavors.
How to Celebrate World Vegetarian Day
- Try a meatless meal: cook a vegetarian recipe for dinner.
- Explore global cuisines: make Indian dal, falafel or vegetable stir-fry.
- Visit a vegetarian restaurant: support a local plant-based spot.
- Learn about protein: discover beans, lentils, tofu and nuts.
- Try Meatless Monday: make vegetarian meals a weekly habit.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a vegetarian potluck lets colleagues share their favorite meat-free dishes. In classrooms, students can learn about plant-based protein, explore vegetarian dishes from different cultures or plant a vegetable garden. At home, families can cook a vegetarian meal together, try a new vegetable or bean, or plan a week of meatless dinners. Talk with a doctor or dietitian about nutrition when making major diet changes, especially for children.
Fun Facts About World Vegetarian Day
- The Vegetarian Society was founded in England in 1847.
- Before 'vegetarian', meat-free eaters were often called Pythagoreans.
- World Vegetarian Day was established in 1977.
World Vegetarian Day FAQs
When is World Vegetarian Day?
World Vegetarian Day is October 1.
Who created World Vegetarian Day?
The North American Vegetarian Society, in 1977.
What is Vegetarian Awareness Month?
The month of October, which begins with World Vegetarian Day.
Where can vegetarians get protein?
Beans, lentils, tofu, eggs, dairy, nuts and whole grains.