Get ready, Victoria—the warmth of the community is about to be served up in a cup!
The second annual Hot Chocolate Festival kicks off next week on Saturday, February 1st, and it’s set to be a month-long celebration of all things sweet and chocolaty.
Not only will you get to indulge in some of the most unique and delicious hot chocolate creations, but you’ll also be supporting a great cause.
Each purchase will contribute $1 to the BC SPCA Victoria Community Animal Centre!
Back and bigger than ever, they’ll have over 25 local merchants across Greater Victoria joining in this year to offer their own hot chocolate masterpieces, each featuring an artisan twist.
Some of the newer merchants include Malahat SkyWalk, Beacon Brewing, Deer & Dough Bakery Cafe, Lure Restaurant & Bar, Chocolats Favoris and many more!
Participants will be treated to everything from Black Forest and Passionfruit Dark to Red Velvet, Strawberries & Cream, and Mexican Chai Spiced Hot Chocolate.
“We have expanded to include hot chocolate creations that differ from our traditional idea of hot chocolate. For example, Cold Comfort Ice Cream is offering a hot chocolate ice cream and L’Apero Wine & Cheese Bistro is offering a hot chocolate fondue,” Kirsten Mah, co-founder of the Hot Chocolate Festival, told Victoria Buzz.
“We also have some businesses offering hot chocolate cocktails and hot chocolate beer!”
Plus, non-dairy, vegan, and spirited options will also be available at select spots, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
It’s the perfect way to support local businesses, embrace the winter season, and give back to the community.
When asked for her favourite from last year, Mah said it would be impossible to choose just one with all of the wonderful ones she tried.
“There were so many great options last year that I can’t choose just one! [But] I am looking forward to so many of this year’s options like Working Culture’s passionfruit dark hot chocolate and Deer & Dough’s spiced gingerbread hot chocolate because of the creativity involved,” Mah added.
“With over 25 businesses, we are spoiled for choice. That is almost one hot chocolate per day!”
Last year, the festival raised over $5,000 for the BC SPCA Victoria Community Animal Centre! And while their aim is the same for this year, with more businesses involved, they’re hoping to go above and beyond!
Jes Alder, the BC SPCA Senior Officer, also expressed her excitement about the community support, and how much it impacts the lives of the animals.
“We see animals coming in daily needing safety, medical care, and love. This fun and delicious festival makes an impactful and meaningful difference in lives who really need the community’s support,” Alder said.
If you wish to check out the full list of participating businesses and to check out the interactive map, you can do so under their ‘Locations’ page.
Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity to warm up and give back!
Victoria’s Hot Chocolate Festival
- Where: All across Greater Victoria and beyond—view the map here.
- When: Saturday, February 1st to Friday, February 28th
