Everything You Need to Know About the Big Island Chocolate Festival
Celebrating all things local comes naturally on the Big Island of Hawaii. From farm-fresh produce to locally sourced seafood, it’s easy to find sustainable meals. The Big Island Chocolate Festival aims to promote the island’s cacao industry! They do this by bringing together local farmers, members of the hospitality industry, and chocolate lovers from around the world for this major event! Read on to find out more about the festival. Then, be sure to check out our free Vacation Guide for more thoughtful suggestions on what to do during your visit to the Big Island!
All About the Big Island Chocolate Festival
The Kona Cacao Association presents this annual event each year in April! Enthusiasts can admire impressive chocolate sculpture. More importantly, they can treat their sweet tooth to a variety of creatively crafted chocolate treats. Surround yourself with passionate artisans, chefs, chocolatiers, and foodies at this two-day festival!
First Day of the Festival: Demonstrations & Tours
The first day of the festival kicks off the chocolate celebration with an array of events! Maybe you’ll sample unique chocolate and liquor pairings. Perhaps you’ll tour cacao farms and factories. It’s an excellent opportunity to watch a master at their craft and grow your appreciation for all things chocolate.
Second Day of the Festival: The Gala
The Bigs Island Chocolate Festival Gala is the main event! It takes place on the second day of the festival. It includes unlimited tastings at more than 25 (sweet AND savory) food booths. Additionally, it features unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails, live music, dancing, a silent auction, and more!
Chocolate fondue fountains. Delicate ganache creations. Rich, raspberry-filled truffles. The list of desserts found at the festival goes on and on. Sample locally crafted chocolate bars. Dip a variety of fruits in fresh chocolate. You might even want to try savory options such as a panini made with prosciutto, brie, basil, and chocolate.
Festival Beneficiaries
Every year the festival awards the proceeds to local educational organizations. The beneficiaries use their funds for a variety of projects ranging from developing a cacao farming curriculum for the upcoming school year, enhancing Keiki gardening programs! In the past, the festival awarded beneficiaries such as
- Hawaii Institute of Pacific Agriculture
- Kona Dance & Performing Arts
- Kona Pacific Charter Schools
- UH Maui College/Culinary Arts Program
- Waimea Country School
Where to Stay During the Festival
In addition to the Big Island Chocolate Festival, visitors will also find so many amazing things to do and see on the Big Island. Some additional events and attractions to consider for your Big Island itinerary include:
- Big Island Botanical Garden
- Ziplining on the Big Island
- Eating at the best local restaurants
- Attend the Kona Brewers Festival
Regardless of what brings you to the Big Island, rest assured your dream vacation will become a reality when you stay in a stylishly sophisticated Private Homes Hawaii vacation rental! Our gorgeous properties make the perfect home away from home for your Big Island getaway. Our Honualai home sits on the shores of a tranquil bay in Puako on the Kohala Coast. The airy breezeways, beautiful private pool, and unparalleled waterfront views make it difficult to leave!