Vegetarian-Omnivore Relations around the Holidays

Posted by Jill Harris Dec 16, 2008

Most Vegetarian Cuisine readers are either vegetarian or vegan. In September 2007 I asked you all whether you're comfortable cooking for meat-eaters .

Most of you (45%) said you’d be a-ok with your guests bringing their own meat dishes, but only 20% said you’d feel comfortable cooking meat for your guests. A full 25% keep an entirely vegetarian/vegan household.

Sometimes people who aren’t close to vegetarians get the wrong idea about what we eat and how we live. I think it’s important to set ground rules for the holidays, especially when dining with new people. It’s equally important to communicate these rules openly when you’re hosting a vegetarian get-together.

Is it ok with you if people bring appetizers with meat in them? If so, will you ask that they bring their own utensils and serving spoons? Or will no meat be served at all? You can see how things can get messy if there‘s not clear communication.

Omnivores and vegetarians can co-exist in peace over the holidays. Learn more by reading about How to be a (Polite) Vegetarian at Holiday Meals, and How to Host a Holiday Dinner for Vegetarian Guests (including tips for vegetarians hosting omnivores).

Happy Holidays!