The holiday season can be a challenging time for vegans, as traditional holiday dishes often include animal products. However, with a little planning and creativity, it is possible to enjoy a delicious and satisfying vegan holiday. Here are some tips for surviving the vegan holidays:

#1 Plan ahead

If you're attending a holiday gathering at someone else's home, consider offering to bring a vegan dish to share. This way, you can be sure there will be something you can eat, and you can also help introduce others to vegan food. If you're hosting the gathering, consider offering a variety of vegan options so that everyone can enjoy a plant-based meal.

#2 Get creative with your dishes

Vegan holiday dishes can be just as festive and delicious as their non-vegan counterparts. Consider making a vegan roast, stuffed squash, or a savory grain and vegetable pilaf. There are also many plant-based alternatives to traditional holiday dishes, such as vegan gravy, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes. Instead of using dairy milk in your mashed potatoes, try using almond milk or coconut milk. You can also use vegan butter or olive oil instead of dairy butter, and use vegan cream cheese or sour cream in dips and spreads.

#3 Don't be afraid to speak up

If you're attending a holiday gathering where you're not sure if there will be vegan options available, don't be afraid to speak up and let the host know about your dietary needs. Many people are happy to accommodate guests and may have some vegan options available, or may be open to suggestions on how to make a dish vegan-friendly.

#4 Bring vegan snacks

If you're worried about not having enough to eat at a holiday gathering, consider bringing along some vegan snacks to tide you over. This could be something as simple as a bag of your favorite vegan chips or crackers, or something more substantial like a vegan sandwich or wrap.

#5 Don't stress

The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy and celebration, so try not to get too stressed out about finding vegan options. Remember that it's okay to indulge in a non-vegan treat every once in a while, as long as it's not a regular occurrence. Focus on enjoying the company of loved ones and the festive atmosphere, rather than stressing about finding the perfect vegan dish.

With a little planning and creativity, it is possible to enjoy a delicious and satisfying vegan holiday. So don't worry, and have a happy and healthy holiday season!