Annual VegFest Houston held at Pershing Middle School

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- At food festivals in Texas, BBQ is king but at Saturday's event, kale took center stage.

Veganism was on full display at VegFest Houston at Pershing Middle School in southwest Houston. More than 50 vendors organized the fourth annual event.

One local vegan says he's been looking forward to this day for a long time because it brings vegans together.

"It's a gift to Houston! There is less and less isolation and it's great to be in community," said vegan Jay Hamburger.

But it is not just for vegans, organizers want people to see what a world without meat is like.

"We have to change people's mindsets," said Hazel Greenberg, volunteer for People for Earth, Animals, Compassion, and Enlightenment (P.E.A.C.E.).

They say it is not as hard as you might think.

"It becomes second nature," said Alan Clune, organizer for P.E.A.C.E.

"That's just an excuse," Greenberg said.

Some of the food vendors believe veganism is the way to go, especially if you love animals.

"Animals have feelings," said Harry Mui, VP of Operations and Marketing for Loving Hut.

And of course there is the health factor.

"The health benefits are phenomenal," states Pam Ennis, owner of YLive Juice.

Your "arteries start to clear out," according to Clune.

More than 4,000 people attended today's event.

P.E.A.C.E. also puts on a festival during Thanksgiving called "Gentle Thanksgiving".

CLICK HERE, for more information about the event.