York Chocolate Festival is making a highly anticipated return this Spring, bringing an exciting array of tasty experiences to the city.
As always, the festival remains a free-entry event, primarily centred in Parliament Street and St Crux Hall.
It’s taking place from the 16 – 20 April and will be host to many delicious activities for all ages to enjoy.
This year’s festivities will feature an increased emphasis on hands-on chocolate-making experiences, including a range of specialist events and an introductory Egg Decoration workshop in Parliament Street.
For those interested in a broader culinary experience, there will be cooking session for scones and truffles to get involved with.
The rest of Parliament Street will be filled with a diverse selection of baking, chocolate, and confectionery stands, offering visitors the chance to indulge in a wide variety of treats.
A spokesperson for the event said, “The festival is delighted to work with Joseph Rowntree Foundation and the Rowntree Society to promote the centenary of the great York philanthropist.
“There is a dedicated event on Saturday 19th and the Festival will host informational displays about how to get involved over the centenary year.”
Activities for all to enjoy
For families, the festival will feature a range of children’s activities, many of which are free.
Highlights include chocolate Easter egg painting, a new ‘Eggs and Bunnies’ game (a twist on Skittles), plus a large-scale Easter egg hunt across the city centre.
There’s fun for adults too! There will be demonstrations, tastings and a dedicated Chocolate Bar in Parliament Street, offering both classic and chocolate-infused beverages.
Additional specialist tastings include a unique Chocolate and Cheese event at Love Cheese, on Gillygate.
The Chocolate Trail is also making a return, providing visitors with guided tours and mini tastings throughout the city, ideal for adults and older children alike.
A festival with purpose
The York Chocolate Festival is proud to work alongside its charity partner, Chocolate & Co., an organsiation committed to breaking down employment barriers for those in need.
The charity supports individuals struggling with addiction or previous criminal records, helping them reintegrate into society through meaningful work.
The charity’s Mariah Pape said, “We’re delighted to be the chosen charity partner for the festival this year, bringing the Chocolate & Co café to the city centre.
“We’ll be situated in St Crux, so please do come meet the team and experience the work we do and the impact Chocolate & Co has on our community.”
Chocolate & Co. will be serving up their delicious hot chocolates, along with many other sweet and savoury treats from their menu.
For more information and to purchase tickets for select events, visit yorkfoodfestival.com.
“Don’t miss out on the sweetest event of the year!”