(Thanks to Maynard Clark of the Boston Vegan Meetup group for some of the links and descriptions)
World Vegetarian Day is observed annually on October 1. It is a day of celebration established by the North American Vegetarian Society in 1977 “to promote the joy, compassion and life-enhancing possibilities of vegetarianism”
October is World Vegetarian Awareness Month. Every year on October 1st, World Vegetarian Day kicks off a month of parties, potluck, presentations, food tasting displays…and lots of friendly discussions.
For those new to vegetarianism, it serves as an enticement to give meatless fare a try (even for a day) and learn about its many benefits. And, of course, it’s the perfect occasion for vegetarians and those already moving towards plant-based diets to celebrate their healthy, compassionate food choices.
World Vegetarian Day and Vegetarian Awareness Month celebrations are as varied as the people who plan them. Whether you want to keep yours simple and private or public and grand  our ideas and resources can help. In addition to individuals from all walks of life, past participants have included schools, colleges, health food stores, co-ops, restaurants, libraries, employers, healthcare centers and many others.
Please consider joining with the thousands of others this October who will be exploring the vast variety of tasty and healthful meat-free foods, and sharing information about the benefits of vegetarian diets with the people in their local communities.
Locally, the Boston Vegetarian Society is having a four course gourmet dinner at Veggie Planet / Club Passim – RSVP required. (more info).
Oct. 16th is also United Nations World Food Day, focusing global food security issues.