On Saturday, April 20, Balboa Park and Vegan Food Popup collaborated to host EarthFest, an annual cultivation of hundreds of food, clothing, and service vendors all dedicated to sustainability and conservation of our planet. 

Of the many foods I tried at the event, my top recommendations would be Yuseong Mandu and The Donuttery.

With crunchy carrots, sauteed spinach, fresh yellow pickled radish, and tofu, the kimbap I ordered came with eight rolls and two sauces: a slightly sweet soy sauce and a spicy gochujang. Both of the provided sauces further enhanced the freshness of the roll by providing a complementing flavor. While this business currently only vends at markets, the owners said they are looking to expand to a physical store and online ordering.  

The Donuttery was a perfect break from the savory, with a half dozen box of sweet, baked goodness. I could choose from a variety of their unique flavors, including the Guava Malasada donut—a perfect blend of tart and sweet with its slightly sour guava jelly inside. I also got the Ube Cake donut, whose rich, sweet ube cream filling was absolutely delectable. 

The most compelling stand, regarding specifically preservation causes, was the Sheldrick Trust, a wildlife preservation organization focused on saving Kenya’s orphaned elephants. Talking to one of the representatives, I learned about their cause and the gravity of maintaining diversity, even within a single  species.

Ending the event with a refreshing hibiscus and orange agua fresca from Maribel y Oliva Cocina, I headed over past the vendors to listen to the live music and explore the stands I had missed. While Sierra Marin and Friends performed in the background, I took a seat on the grass, taking in the expansive diversity of conversation, thought, and people.

EarthFest was a lovely experience, a fabulous celebration and call to preservation. It was filled with food, music, and trinkets—all for the little planet we call home.