The holiday season is upon us and that means one thing – Christmas markets! The twinkling lights, the festive music, and the smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts in the air all add to the magical atmosphere. But for many vegans, these markets can be a bit daunting. With the majority of stalls offering traditional meat and dairy-based treats, it can be a challenge to find vegan options. That’s why Miranda Pell, a vegan herself, went to the Manchester Christmas Markets to see what the options were for those following a plant-based diet.
As soon as Miranda arrived at the markets, she was pleasantly surprised to see that many stalls had signs indicating vegan options. She wasted no time and headed straight for the first one – a stall selling traditional German bratwurst. To her delight, she found that they also offered a vegan bratwurst made from seitan. Miranda couldn’t resist trying it out and was amazed at how similar it tasted to the real thing. “It’s great to see that even traditional meat-based foods can be adapted to suit a vegan diet,” she exclaimed.
Next, Miranda stumbled upon a stall selling traditional Hungarian chimney cakes. Again, she was thrilled to see that they also had a vegan version available. Made with plant-based butter and filled with delicious chocolate spread, this vegan treat was a hit with Miranda. “It’s great to know that I can still indulge in some festive treats without compromising my vegan lifestyle,” she said with a smile.
As she continued to explore the markets, Miranda found that most stalls had at least one vegan option available. From vegan hot chocolate to vegan mince pies, she was spoilt for choice. She even came across a stall offering vegan-friendly mulled wine, made with red grape juice instead of the traditional red wine. “I didn’t think I would be able to enjoy a warm cup of mulled wine at the markets, but I’m glad I was proven wrong,” Miranda shared.
But it wasn’t just food stalls that offered vegan options. Miranda also found a stall selling handmade vegan soaps and cosmetics. “It’s great to see that the markets are not only catering to vegans’ dietary needs but also offering other vegan products,” she noted. The stall owner explained that all their products are made with natural, cruelty-free ingredients, making them a perfect gift for any ethical shopper.
As she made her way through the markets, Miranda was pleased to see that many of the stalls were also offering environmentally-friendly alternatives. From reusable bamboo straws to handmade tote bags, the markets were promoting sustainable living. “I think it’s great that the markets are not just about indulging in festive treats, but also promoting a more eco-conscious way of living,” Miranda commented.
As the evening drew to a close, Miranda couldn’t help but feel grateful for the variety of vegan options available at the Manchester Christmas Markets. “It’s amazing to see how much the markets have evolved and are now catering to the needs of all visitors, including vegans,” she said. From traditional festive treats to handmade vegan products, the markets truly have something for everyone.
So, for all the vegans out there, don’t let the thought of Christmas markets intimidate you. The Manchester Christmas Markets have proven that it is possible to enjoy the festive season while still adhering to a vegan lifestyle. With the growing popularity of plant-based diets, it’s no surprise that the markets are now offering more vegan options than ever before. So, gather your friends and family and head down to the Manchester Christmas Markets for a truly magical and inclusive experience. Happy Holidays!
