Vegan Holiday Recipes for All 4 Seasons

Welcome to the holiday vegan recipes for celebrations all throughout the year: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter! The recipes cover traditional plant-based dishes, ingenious meat-substituting main course entrees, and trendy vegan culinary creations. The holidays range from lesser-known days of observance or awareness, to high-profile festivals and feast days.

How does a vegan recipe get listed? It must meet the Progressive Graffiti home cooking criteria… not too many ingredients, nothing too weird, fairly affordable, and the easier the better! Should taste good, too. And… I think I’d like to prepare it myself, some day.

Since I save many more recipes than I’ll ever cook, “Vegan Holiday Recipes” is stored in several sections. Just follow the links. Any recipe I’ve tried, with success and pleasure, gets a✴!

This section outlines the major holidays and important awareness days. It also directs you to handy vegan tips and resources.

Updated: October 27, 2022

A vegan lifestyle supports animal welfare, human health, and a sustainable planet. If you need extra motivation, learn more:

Avoir un bon appétit végétalien!

SPRING

Spring is the season of renewal. It’s time to break a fast or mark a new beginning.

Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) – 3/1/22

National Pig Day – 3/1

Pigs are highly intelligent domesticated animal. They make great pets. But most pigs are raised for food, and factory farms are very hard on pigs. Use this day to think about how to make their better lives.

St. Patrick’s Day – March 17

Largely a secular holiday, we see the shamrock everywhere. It’s a great day to “go green.”

Holi (Festival of Colors) – 3/19/22

The theme of Holi, the Hindu Festival of colors, is the triumph of good over evil. Sweets and snacks reign.

Spring Equinox – 3/20/22 (Northern Hemisphere, 3/19-21/22) — featuring SPRING ROLLS

No food recognizes the first day of Spring better than spring rolls. Have each guest prepare and bring a different kind of vegan spring roll to the party.

National Pet Day – 4/11

Celebrate companion animals and encourage people to adopt shelter animals. It’s your furry friend’s big day!

Passover – 4/15-23/22

God freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, as told in the Book of Exodus. Current social justice issues are often discussed during the Passover dinner, or Seder.

Easter – 4/17/22

Earth Day – 4/22 — featuring HUMMUS

Demonstrating for climate action on Earth Day? Pack hummus, flatbread, veggies and fruit to eat on the go.

Hawaiian Lei Day – 5/1 — featuring POLYNESIAN Cuisine

This day celebrates Hawaiian culture. Everyone gives and wears a lei, which symbolizes “Aloha” and means: love, friendship, celebration, honor, and greeting.

May Day (International Workers’ Day) – May 1 — featuring SANDWICHES

Joining a strike on Workers’ Day? Pack a lunchbox and thermos for hearty vegan sustenance on the go.

“Lunch box and vacuum bottle owned by Harry S. Truman… In the United States, the lunch box or lunch pail has been used as a [political] symbol of the working class. The phrase ‘lunch pail Democrat’ is used to classify populist politicians who attempt to gain the votes of the working class.” ~ Wikiwand

World Press Freedom Day – 5/3 — featuring COFFEE & TEA

A free press is vital to democracy. And caffeine is vital to journalism. Buy your favorite independent news outlet “a cup of coffee.” That is, make a donation. Then, make yourself a cup.

Cinco De Mayo – 5/5

Mexican heritage is celebrated in the U.S.

Mother’s Day – 5/8/22 — featuring BREAKFAST & BRUNCH

Breakfast or brunch is the tradition. because mothers rule the (plant-based) world! (See poem.)

Memorial Day – May 31

We honor the military men and women who died in service to our country. We celebrate with prayers, parades, red poppies, and outdoor gatherings. Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the summer season.

World Peace begins in the kitchen.

~ Anonymous

SUMMER

Summer is the season for out-of-doors recreation. Think: barbeques and picnics.

World Oceans Day – 6/8 — featuring SEAFOOD

Oceans sustain life on Planet Earth. This day advocates for united, global effort to save ocean sustainability. Fish-loving vegans join the effort!

Greek Food Festival (Monday of the Holy Spirit) – 8/13/22

In the United States, many festivals are held to celebrate Greek food and culture.

Father’s Day – 6/19/22

Spend time with Dad. Do whatever he loves to do, and prepare him a manly vegan meal.

Juneteenth – 6/19

Finally, on June 19, 1865, all black slaves were freed. It’s a day for jubilant celebration. Red foods are traditional.

Summer Solstice – 6/21/22 (Northern Hemisphere)

The Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year, AKA Midsummer. A picnic is the perfect way to celebrate.

Independence Day – 7/4 — featuring the OUTDOOR GRILL

Today, we celebrate the great American Experiment with fireworks–but not before we fire up the grill!

Cow Appreciation Day – 7/9 — featuring veggie BURGERS

On this day, it’s good etiquette to eat veggie burgers. Learn more about how to help factory farmed cows at the National Humane Education Society.

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.

~ Anatole France
Cows love it when humans make “green” diet resolutions!

National Ice Cream Day (US & UK) – 7/17/22

Vegans like to celebrate the perfect dessert, too. (Nondairy, of course!)

Mandela Day – 7/18 — featuring PANTRY ITEMS only

It’s a day to help less fortunate people in your community. Invite guests to bring 4 cans of food to donate AND a vegan potluck dish made from only canned goods and dry pantry items. (Test try.) The following recipe selection is inspired by 12 Best Food Products to Donate, and 3 to Avoid.

Jamaica Emancipation & Independence – 8/1&6 — featuring JAMAICAN CUISINE

AUTUMN

Autumn is the season for harvest and thanksgiving.

Labor Day – 9/5/22

It’s the last warm-weather outdoor holiday of the year. Its remembers the labor union movement and celebrates workers. The weekend is celebrated with parades, picnics, and cookouts.

Autumn Equinox – 9/22/22

Celebrate the Autumn Equinox by feasting on the Fall harvast of local produce.

National Voter Registration Day – 9/22/22

Make sure you and your friends are registered to vote. Reward your diligent efforts with an all-American vegan feast!

Dogs in Politics Day – 9/23

Behind every successful politician, there’s a good dog. Checkers, the Cocker Spaniel, single-handedly saved his human’s political career in 1952 — and inspired Dogs in Politics Day. Checkers’ human was Sen. Richard Nixon… So, Leftists, take this day over! Host a political gathering. Serve vegan hot dogs. (They’re economical, “politically correct,” and memorable.)

Rosh Hashanah – 9/25-27/22

The Jewish New Year celebrates God’s creation of the world. It’s a time to reflect upon the past year, and seek forgiveness as the new year begins. Traditional dishes represent blessings. For instance, sweet foods symbolize hope for a “sweet” new year.

Baked Apple Roses make a luscious Rosh Hashana dessert. (Use a vegan egg wash.)

World Animal Day – 10/4

This is the international day of action for animal rights and welfare. It coincides with Saint Francis of Assisi Feast Day. It’s a great time for carnivores to test easy vegan classic recipes.

St. Francis of Assisi was known for his gentle manner with animals. In the 1297-1299 Giotto di Bondone painting, he is seen “Preaching to the Birds.” Enjoy his feast day with Autumn holiday vegan recipes.

Here are the easy, basic dishes to get you started on a “greener” diet that is kinder to animals and Mother Earth.

Yom Kippur – 10/4-5/22

The Jewish Day of Atonement is a time for fasting and purification. It’s a time to forgive and repent. It’s a time of renewal. There are two Yom Kippur meals. One is served before the fast, and one is served after the fast.

World Teachers’ Day – 10/5

This appreciation Day originated from a partnership between UNESCO, International Labour Organization, UNICEF, and Education International. The food most associated with teachers is the apple. The PTA should host an apple buffet for their teachers.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day – 10/10/22

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is often observed, instead of Columbus Day. The holiday is also called First People’s Day, National Indigenous Peoples Day, or Native American Day. It celebrates the history and culture of Native American people with ceremonies and feasts.

Diwali – 10/24/22

The Indian “festival of lights,” the triumph of good over evil is celebrate

Halloween – 10/31

From communing with dead souls to bats in the belfry, Halloween is the official day to laugh at demons. Spooky foods make you brave.

Veterans Day – 11/11

All past and current active-duty soldiers who served the United States are honored. Prepare your Vet a hearty vegan breakfast. Or eat out. Many restaurants feed vets for free on Veterans Day. (See link below.)

World Children’s Day – 11/20

World Children’s Day is observed in order to protect children’s rights and to improve their standard of living. To participate, have the kids work on a project to help less fortunate children. Serve them vegan snacks.

Thanksgiving – 11/24/22

Thanksgiving is High Feast Day in the United States, and officially launches the holiday season. A roasted turkey is the traditional table centerpiece. But vegans “mock” that idea.

Hanukkah – 11/28-12/6/22

Veganism is not a sacrifice. It is a joy.

~ Gary L. Francione

Winter Holiday Vegan Recipes

Winter holidays celebrate forgiveness, peace, and love.

Human Rights Day – December 10

In 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the UN. Know your rights, your human rights. Politically speaking, never be intimidated from demanding what you deserve. You have many rights! See why “Veganism Is a Human Rights Issue.”

Winter Solstice – December 21, 2022 (Northern Hemisphere)

The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year. It was observed by many ancient cultures, and is the pagan Yule holiday. Intrigued by astronomy or ancient history? Comfort food is in order, for the longest night of the year.

Christmas Eve – 12/24

It’s the eve of the Big Day, but has traditions of its own (Chinese takeout, anyone?) Make something quick and easy, but nice, for a meal. You’ll be busy with hanging stockings, gift-wrapping, or entertaining friends.

There’s a Jewish connection between Chinese food and December 24th. You’ll find many Chinese recipes in the Winter section.

Christmas Day – December 25

Celebrate the birth of Christ, the Prince of Peace. Gather your family and friends around. Have yourself a merry little (vegan) Christmas.

Boxing Day – 12/26

It all began in Victorian England… The BBC explains that Boxing Day: “was traditionally a day off for servants,” who would receive “a special Christmas box from their masters.” Modern Boxing Day means glorious leftovers and TLC for anyone who had to work on Christmas day.

Kwanzaa – 12/26/22-1/1/23

Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration of African-American culture. A feast, called “Karamu,” is served on the 6th day. Groundnut (peanut) stew and Jollof rice are popular traditional West African dishes to serve.

New Year’s Eve – 12/31

New Year’s Eve celebrates the coming new year, often with a party. Finger foods and cocktails are all you need for a late-night celebration. (And to arrange safe rides home for guests.)

Christmas Day 12/25

Celebrate the birth of Christ, the Prince of Peace. Gather your family and friends around, including the furry ones, and have yourself a merry little (vegan) Christmas.

Boxing Day – December 26 — featuring LEFTOVERS

It all began in Victorian England… The BBC explains Boxing Day: “[It] was traditionally a day off for servants, and the day when they received a special Christmas box from their masters.” Modern Boxing Day means glorious leftovers and TLC for anyone who had to work on Christmas day. (Also check May Day, May 1, for sandwich recipes.)

Kwanzaa – December 26 – January 1

Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration of African-American culture. A feast, called “Karamu,” is served on the 6th day. Groundnut (peanut) stew and Jollof rice are popular traditional West African dishes to serve.

New Year’s Eve – December 31 — featuring FINGER FOODS & COCKTAILS

New Year’s Eve celebrates the coming new year, often with a party. Finger foods and cocktails are all you need for a late-night celebration. (And to arrange safe rides home for guests.)

Mardi Gras or Fat-Tuesday – January 16, 2021 (Day before Ash Wednesday)

Mardi Gras is celebrated on the day before the Christian season of Lent begins. “Carnival” refers to the days of festivities leading up to Mardi Gras. There is no reason why people cannot revel in luscious holiday vegan recipes that are prepared for Mardi Gras! A plant-based menu is an epicurean delight, without the animal fat!

Mardi is the French word for Tuesday, and gras means “fat.” Traditionally, in the days leading up to Lent, merrymakers would binge on all the rich, fatty foods—meat, eggs, milk, lard and cheese—that remained in their homes, in anticipation of several weeks of eating only fish and different types of fasting.

~ History.com

Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 18

A wonderful way to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is to invite some friends over for hearty cold-weather vegan comfort-food, and to talk about the fight for human rights and economic justice. After eating, plan a local grassroots action and paint protest posters.

[King] wasn’t vegan/vegetarian, but his wife, Coretta Scott King, was vegan for the last 10 years of her life. Dr. King’s son, Dexter King, has been a vegan and animal rights activist since the 1980s. 

~ Lisa Viger Gotte, Planted 365
Jenne Claiborne, of Sweet Potato Soul, learned lessons from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — while making his favorite dessert: pecan pie.

Food for Thought: Black Health Matters [and Veganism] | Jewcology, MLK Day: An Opportunity to Serve | Kitchn

Chinese New Year – 1/23

The Chinese New Year marks the transition of zodiac signs, which are represented by animals. 2021 is the Year of the Ox. More than 20% of the world’s population celebrates the Chinese New Year. Prepare humane holiday vegan recipes for an auspicious new year!

Super Bowl – February 7, 2021 (Sunday in January or February)

The Super Bowl determines the championship team of the National Football League (NFL). It’s the biggest game day of the year. So dig into your stash of holiday vegan recipes, and prepare something special to eat while watching the game. Being vegan is rather sporting, afterall, towards both animals and humans.

Valentine’s Day – February 14

Couples have a holiday to celebrate their love each year, on February 14th. Try preparing one of these lovely holiday vegan recipes for an intimate dinner for two on Valentine’s Day, or any Date Night.

How to make the Love Martini (Cranberry Cocktail), in pictures.

Presidents’ Day – February 15

You won’t find many holiday vegan recipes to commemorate Presidents’ Day. But George Washington and Abraham Lincoln deserve a festive vegan dessert in their honor. They founded and protected our country’s democracy. Let’s celebrate liberty and justice for all creatures, by preparing holiday vegan recipes to honor the Presidents.

The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.

~ Gandhi

I hope you enjoy veganized holidays all year long!

RECIPES

Bread

Cheese

Dressing

Flavor Boosters

Gravy

Lentils

Meatballs

Pasta

Pudding

Sauce

Seitan

Soup

Minestrone Soup With Escarole | Buon-A-Petitti

Soy Curls

Tempeh

Tempeh & Peppers in Pesto Cream Sauce | This Savory Vegan

Tofu

TIPS

Food Prep

Keto

Veganize

%d bloggers like this: