Richmond, Virginia, January 6th, 2026 – Vegan Action is hosting RVA's Ninth Annual Vegan Food Week & Restaurant Challenge, January 20th through January 25th 2026.

Once again, Vegan Action is challenging area restaurants, cafés, and bakeries to flex their skills with unique vegan options – specials not offered on their regular menus that do not contain any animal ingredients. Starting as a 72-hour long event in 2018, the event was expanded to 144 hours in 2021– thus “V72x2” (also simply known as V72). With over 30 establishments participating during this year’s event - ALL of Richmond, not just vegans, will have the opportunity to try new dishes, drinks, and sweets while supporting local businesses!

Each year patrons vote for their favorite savory dish and their favorite sweet treat, with the winners receiving plaques they can proudly display. Past winners include Idle Hands Bread Company’s Cannoli Cruffin, Soul N’ Vinegar’s General Tso’s Tofu, Ruby Scoops’ Sticky Toffee Pudding Sundae, Cobra Cabana’s “Noshin’ on Heaven’s Door” (a Reuben Sandwich with Matzo Ball Soup), and Philly Vegan’s Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla.

Vegan Action has partnered again with Matchbox Mutual Aid to be the recipient of donations from the sale of the participating business’s V72 dishes. This umbrella organization supports RVA Community Fridges and Food Not Bombs, two area organizations who work to combat food insecurity.

Patrons will be able to pick up a special “V72x2 Passport” at all participating businesses. When they visit 5 or more participating establishments during V72 and get their Passport marked, they can get a complimentary sweet treat from WPA Bakery, located at 3414 Semmes Ave, Richmond, VA 23225. (This Passport special is valid throughout the month of February).

All the event details, participating restaurants, and specials will be updated as available at www.vegan72.com