Big Island Chocolate Festival

Itʻs a tropical-chic celebration where the beauty of Hawai‘i meets the decadence of chocolate at “Chocolate in Paradise” at 13th Big Island Chocolate Festival April 23-25 at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.

The annual festival is a celebration of flavor, sustainability and community that leaves your senses smiling! Find chocolate-themed culinary demonstrations for the home cook, cacao growing and processing seminars by industry experts, a farm tour and a festiveevening gala with walkabout savory and sweet culinary booths, a towering chocolate fountain, entertainment, DJ dancing and a silent auction.

At the 5:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday gala, guests can enjoy unlimited wine, beer, iced tea and coffee. The gala also offers VIP seating with two specially curated drinks paired with pupus. A panel of invited judges and attendees will critique chef and confectionary offeringswhile culinary stations will vie in a contest for Best Booth decorated to this year’s paradise theme. A photo booth will stage fun, playful props for selfies.

Also on tap is a college culinary competition where the next generation of Hawai‘i culinarians showcase their sweet and savory skills while utilizing chocolate and the cocoa bean.

In its 13th year, the celebration of chocolate is presented by the non-profit Kona Cacao Association (KCA). Support provided by Hawai‘i Tourism Authority through the Community Enrichment Program.

A general admission gala ticket is $109; early bird tickets are available for a limited time for $95. VIP entry includes early entry, reserved seating and exclusive savory options paired with specialty drinks for $179. Also available are specially priced event room packages at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort. Educational activities and prices will be announced on the website closer to dates. All event tickets and room packages are sold online and additional tax and ticketing fees apply. Details: https://bigislandchocolatefestival.com

@BIChocoFest