York’s Annual Chocolate Festival Returns with Sweet Surprises

Complimentary Activities:

• Immerse yourself in the sweet atmosphere as you explore Parliament Street's diverse market, featuring local chocolatiers and confectioners showcasing an array of sweet and some savoury products with a chocolate twist. The marketplace is open from 10 am to 5 pm.

• Chocolate Sculpture Gallery: Witness the skilled craftsmanship of “Extreme Chocolatier” Ashley McCarthy as he constructs his large Chocolate House at the Activity Marquee (10 am to 5 pm), an evolving masterpiece to add to the nearby Festival Sculpture Gallery. McCarthy has also provided a range of finished chocolate sculptures from himself and others.

• Chocolate Food Factory: Experience the Chocolate Food Factory at St Crux (10 am to 4 pm), where hands-on chocolate treat-making awaits. The activity is available on a first-come-first-serve basis, with the option to make a donation to support the festival.

• Chocolate Café-Bar: Both sweet and savoury snacks and meals will be available to purchase, alongside a variety of drinks – some even with a chocolate twist!
  At the centre of the show a place to try chilli con carne with cocoa, and sweet, savoury, or vegan flatbreads – one with another chocolate twist!  Washed down with chocolate stout; or more conventionally a prosecco, hot chocolate, mulled wine, or Brew York beers – including some with (you’ve guessed it) a chocolate twist.

Ticketed Activity

• Taste Trail: Embark on a self-guided Taste Trail around York, sampling the best of the city's food scene at carefully selected stops. Limited tickets are available online or at the festival information point (while stocks last). Collect your guide booklet from the information point between 10 am and 4 pm.

• Easter Egg Hunt: Families can enjoy a self-guided Easter Egg Hunt, exploring the city, solving clues, and collecting mini eggs. The adventure concludes with the chance to decorate a chocolate egg bar with York Cocoa Works. Pre-book online or purchase guide booklet at the Information Point between 10am and 4pm.

• Chocolate Egg Decorating: Participate in the hands-on experience of decorating an Easter Egg-shaped chocolate bar with York Cocoa Works. Open from 10 am to 4 pm.

• York Cocoa Works Events: Throughout the festival, York Cocoa Works hosts daily chocolate experiences, masterclasses, and workshops, inviting participants to immerse themselves in the world of chocolate.

• Fantastic Faces: For those seeking a festive touch, enjoy Easter-themed face painting with Fantastic Faces next to the activity area on Parliament Street from 10 am to 5 pm.

• Adults only!  Chocolate Beer and Gin tastings with York Gin, Brew York and Fairfax Distillery 

Tickets are now available on line through the Festival website. www.yorkfoodfestival.com 

Festival Location: Parliament Street
Festival Times: 10am to 5pm
Activity Areas: Parliament Street (between Halifax & Barclays) and St Crux
Information Point: Next to Parliament Street Activity Area