Veggie Fest hopes for record crowd

NAPERVILLE, Ill., Aug. 1 (UPI) -- Organizers of Veggie Fest in Naperville, Ill., said they are hoping for a turnout of 10,000 -- about 4 percent of the turnout at the same city's Ribfest.

Veggie Fest organizers said 10,000 would be a record turnout for the weekend event, which includes programs on vegetarian cooking and vegetarian soul food, the Chicago Tribune reported Friday.

The organizers said an increase in advertising this year and the adding of a second day to the schedule have fueled expectations for a high turnout.

"We've got 24 porta-potties," Veggie Fest manager Jonathan Kruger said. "That was a big debate -- how many porta-potties we should have."

Don Emery, chairman of the 2008 Ribfest, which draws about 250,000 people, said he doesn't feel threatened by the smaller event.

"I wish them well," he said. "For everybody who likes that kind of food, great. If I get a minute, maybe I'll pop over there and check it out. If it's as good as Ribfest food is, then they'll be successful."