Launched in 2010, the Hot Chocolate Festival was the first city-wide event of its kind in the world. The festival brings together the best chocolatiers, pastry shops, bakeries, cafes, and gelato makers from across 10 regions of British Columbia as they turn a simple cup of hot chocolate into something spectacular. In the midst of a frigid West Coast winter, their motto is definitely onto something: “Chocolate Makes You Happy!”
Hot chocolate connoisseur
Launched in 2010, the Hot Chocolate Festival was the first city-wide event of its kind in the world. The festival brings together the best chocolatiers, pastry shops, bakeries, cafes, and gelato makers from across 10 regions of British Columbia as they turn a simple cup of hot chocolate into something spectacular. In the midst of a frigid West Coast winter, their motto is definitely onto something: “Chocolate Makes You Happy!”
Not your classic cup
ICYMI, the hot chocolates served up are packed with flavours your Carnation hot chocolate packets couldn’t even dream of. From 49th Parallel’s turmeric “Golden Cocoa” to À La Mode Pie Café’s “Cozy Miso Bear” (hot chocolate blended with butterscotch, miso, and lemon grass), your taste buds will thank you for grabbing a cup!
To sip or not to sip
Wondering how to choose which cafes to hit up? The festival’s website allows you to sort by the following categories:
Vegan options
Gluten free options
Dairy free options
Open late
Takeout only
Limited seating cafes…
… and their virtual map function allows you to sort by neighbourhood! The festival isn’t just for Vancouverites either, the lower mainland finally gets to have nice things.
Delicious details
Ready to hop on the hot chocolate train? The festival takes place from January 18th-February 14th at participating vendors. Check out www.hotchocolatefest.com for all the deets. Which hot chocolates are you trying?
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