The 9th DC Chocolate Festival - Treat Yourself! (Day 1)

The DC Chocolate Festival returns for its ninth year, bringing together chocolate makers, chocolatiers, cacao experts, and chocolate lovers for a weekend celebration of fine chocolate. This spring tradition takes place at La Maison Française, providing a gorgeous light-filled venue perfect for sampling exceptional craft chocolate and discovering new makers.

Day 1 kicks off Friday evening from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM with full vendor access to outstanding local and international chocolate makers. The evening features generous sampling opportunities, educational micro-workshops, tasting sessions, and conversations with makers about sourcing, craft, and flavor. Guests can explore incredible chocolate confections, treats, beverages, and craft chocolate bars throughout the venue.

This year's festival includes a special highlight: the HCP (Heirloom Cacao Preservation Fund) Award Ceremony celebrating excellence in cacao and spotlighting efforts dedicated to cacao preservation and the future of fine chocolate. Whether you're a casual chocolate enthusiast or devoted craft chocolate fan, the festival offers a rich and immersive tasting experience.

Friday night tickets are $25 for ages 10 and up. Guests can only enter at the 6:00 PM start time and must leave by 9:00 PM. For updated event details and additional vendors and workshops being added through March and April, visit www.dcchocolatefestival.com.