Celebrating All Things Chocolate: The 20th Annual Oregon Chocolate Festival Set for March 1-3, 2024
Festivities include everything from a Chocolate Maker’s Wine Dinner and Charlie’s Chocolate Run to a Chocolate Brunch and chocolate-themed activities for kids
ASHLAND, Ore. (January 25, 2024) – Neuman Hotel Group is thrilled to announce the 20th annual Oregon Chocolate Festival, scheduled for the weekend of March 1-3, 2024, at Ashland Hills Hotel and Suites. This milestone event will feature a dazzling array of chocolate creations from top West Coast chocolatiers, making it a haven for chocolate enthusiasts. Highlights of this year’s festival include a Chocolate Brunch, a chocolate product competition, the sold-out Chocolate Maker’s Wine Dinner, children’s activities, and a vibrant Vendors Marketplace.
“We are excited to host the 20th year of the Oregon Chocolate Festival,” said Karolina Lavagnino, spokesperson for Neuman Hotel Group. “This year promises an even richer experience with a variety of chocolatiers and artisans. We’re dedicated to offering an immersive chocolate experience, from its historical roots to its modern culinary innovations.”
The festivities begin on Friday, March 1, with the First Friday Art Walk in downtown Ashland from 5 pm to 8 pm. The Chocolate Maker’s Wine Dinner, a highlight of the festival, will be held from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm at the historic Ashland Springs Hotel, featuring a five-course menu by LARKS Executive Chef, Franco Console, paired with select Oregon wines.
The popular Chocolate Brunch returns, hosted by Ashland’s award-winning Executive Chef, David Georgeson, in the Stardust Lounge at Ashland Hills Hotel. Guests will enjoy a delectable buffet-style menu, indulging savory and sweet chocolate-infused delights.
Participants can also choose to enjoy Chocolate Decadence Spa Experiences at Waterstone Spa, blending the soothing qualities of chocolate with other luxurious ingredients for a one-of-a-kind pampering session.
Visitors to the area are encouraged to book the Chocolate Escape packages at Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites and Ashland Springs Hotel, offering a complete festival experience with added comfort and convenience.
Other notable activities include:
- Charlie’s Chocolate Run: A family-friendly event with multiple race distances, including a 1-mile fun run, a 5K, and a 10K, featuring chocolate treats for participants.
- Chocolate Gnome Hunt: A magical exploration activity where families can find gnome doors throughout the festival venue and downtown Ashland.
- Chocolate Product Competition: Chocolatiers and artisans compete to showcase their most innovative and delicious chocolate creations.
- Expert Panel Discussions: Featuring renowned chocolatiers and industry experts discussing the latest trends and techniques in chocolate making.
- The Wonka Chocolate Costume Contest: An event for all ages where participants dress in chocolate-inspired costumes, with a chance to win a special chocolate getaway.
- Face Painting: Transforming children into their favorite characters with artistic face painting, available on both festival days.
- Photo Booth: An opportunity for attendees to capture fun moments at the festival.
Find a full list of participating vendors here: https://www.oregonchocolatefestival.com/participants/
Those wishing to attend can purchase day passes for $25 per day, or two-day passes for $40. Kids 8 and under enter FREE. For tickets and more information, visit https://www.oregonchocolatefestival.com/tickets/
