Veggie Fest in Naperville

Peeled coconuts, brimming with liquid, looked far more appetizing than their standard plastic cup counterparts being carried through the crowd Saturday at Veggie Fest.

They were cool, fresh and fruity.

All three were themes prevalent at the event that celebrated the vegetarian lifestyle, held on the grounds of the Science of Spirituality Meditation Center in Naperville.

There was "Rah Rah Raw" with lessons and recipes designed to get kids interested in eating fresh foods. An entire tent was dedicated to "South of the Border" cuisine, and then there was "Vegetarian Cooking for Dummies."

All were chock full of attentive audience members.

"I want to learn different ways of cooking," said West Chicago's Margaret McKenzie, who last year signed up for a newsletter that provided such tips for the past 12 months.

Veggie Fest, now in its third year, attracted a crowd from across the region.

Amelia Mancilla said she's going vegetarian "little by little" and hoped to learn ways of becoming more healthy. Since last year's event, she's started meditating, doing yoga, eating more healthily and has lost 15 pounds.

Joan Lopina of Plainfield said she was there looking for a little inspiration, hopefully in the form of healthier recipes.

While those were in abundance, there were also vendors galore offering massages, meditation advice, scented oils, holistic medicine information, cooking aids.

A second-year attendee, Eleanor Ixchel of Lisle, said she looks forward to getting information as well as mingling with friends at the event.

"It's very holistic," she said, "because it treats your whole body, spiritually and physically."

Veggie Fest continues from 11 a.m. To 4 p.m. today at 4S175 Naperville Road.