Kelowna's second all vegan market draws quite the crowd

The Earth to Table Vegan Market returned to Kelowna today, drawing a crowd of hundreds within minutes of opening.

The second running of the event saw more than 200 people flood into the Laurel Packinghouse just 15 minutes after opening its doors.

Previously hosted at the Kelowna Forum, event organizers quickly changed venues to accommodate the volume of attendees and vendors.

"We wanted to create a space where we could help people who have maybe been wary of converting to a vegan lifestyle, one where we can answer questions and provide information so we can go through the process together," said co-founder and organizer, Cassandra McFarland.

Vendors from across the Central Okanagan lined the perimeter of the venue, ready to showcase their cruelty-free products to an audience which holds the guarantee in high regard.

From vegan cheese, perogies, and caesar mix to clothing, jewelry, make-up and body care, patrons who live a cruelty-free lifestyle, or are simply looking for alternatives to their regular products, could find just what they're looking for and discover much more at the event.

In addition to providing a hub for the Okanagan's vegan community and those who value cruelty-free products, the event also has some philanthropic flair. Proceeds from the entrance fee will be donated to the local animal rescue, Twin Hearts.

The organizers have said that due to the success of the market, they have hopes of bringing it on a more regular basis, starting quarterly, with the hopes of making it a monthly event.

If you have a love of supporting local, shopping cruelty-free or are curious to learn more about a plant-based lifestyle, the market will be running until 4 p.m. today at the Laurel. Admission is $3 per person, $5 for a family and free for children under the age of 12.