Atlanta Veg Week returns for its second year April 14 through April 20, inviting Atlantans to explore plant-based eating through community events, restaurant partnerships and educational activities during Earth Month.

Founded by Nichole Dandrea-Russert, MS, RDN, a registered dietitian and founder of Purely Planted, the initiative encourages people to try more plant-based foods while supporting local restaurants and farmers. Atlanta Veg Week was inspired by the national Veg Week movement led by Animal Outlook, which encourages cities to designate a week to promote plant-based eating and greater awareness of the connections between food choices, health and sustainability.

The week includes restaurant participation across metro Atlanta, online cooking demonstrations and a community passport program that rewards participants for engaging in plant-based food experiences. Activities include dining at any of the 13 participating restaurants, watching/recreating cooking demonstrations, visiting farmers’ markets and signing the Veg Week pledge.

A kickoff celebration takes place April 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Patagonia Atlanta, 99 Krog Street NE. Tickets are $12 and include a Veg Week passport, swag bag, live DJ and access to participating vendors.

Participation in Atlanta Veg Week itself is free and open to everyone. Those unable to attend the kickoff party can access a digital passport and join the week’s activities at no cost.

Participants may purchase an optional $12 community passport that provides raffle entries when they complete activities. Many prizes are available, including a Patagonia shopping spree.

“Atlanta Veg Week is about making climate-friendly eating feel approachable and celebratory,” says Dandrea-Russert. “My hope is that people discover new flavors, support local restaurants and farmers and realize that small shifts toward more plants can positively impact their health and the planet.”

For more information, visit AtlantaVegWeek.com or email [email protected].