This year marks the 66th anniversary celebration of the Virginia Highlands Festival! Join the fun in Abingdon from August 1 – 10 to experience all the festival has to offer – including music, artists, crafts, vendors, and plenty of delicious food. With so much to do at this year’s festival, your family is sure to work up an appetite. But what should you look for?
No matter what you eat, your teeth are the first to come into play. Foods such as sugary snacks, soda pop, candies and chewing gum promote tooth decay. Choose foods that will keep you away from these health menaces and, instead, offer meals made from fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains or healthy meats.
The variety of menu items should not be the only criteria you use when choosing which vendor to order from. Here are 3 tips to consider:
- Start by looking for food vendors that offer healthy alternatives instead of the usual unhealthy fare of fast food. Vendors that boast locally sourced ingredients and offer food that is fresh, and hunting one down is often a good idea.
- Most festival foods cater to a niche market, so many vendors will offer vegetarian meals. Whether it is sandwiches, soups, juices, or salads, a vegetarian fare can offer a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.
- Try your best to avoid the dessert! Since the amount of sugar is so high in sweet desserts, we recommend you avoid falling into the sugar trap. Opt for delicious summer fruits instead, like watermelon or berries. If you must indulge, rinse your mouth out with water afterwards and brush as soon as you can.
Here’s to a fun and festive time at this year’s Virginia Highlands Festival!