For the Love of Chocolate Festival

The Escondido Downtown Business Association hosts its annual chocolate festival – For the Love of Chocolate. Whether you’re a devoted chocolate enthusiast or simply seeking an elegant and engaging way to spend the day, the chocolate festival promises a rich, immersive experience designed to delight the senses.

Located in the historic downtown Escondido, chocolate lovers will stroll at their own pace through a curated selection of participating restaurants, shops, galleries, and spa tasting locations, each offering thoughtfully crafted chocolate pairings created exclusively for the tasting event.

New this year, elevate your experience with Behind the Bottle wine maker talks, offering an intimate look into the craft and stories behind the wine. Guests will also receive a keepsake tasting glass and can join the excitement of the Golden Ticket Hunt throughout the day.

A hands-on gourmet chocolate truffle–making workshop, led by the professional team at D’Liteful Chocolat, will also be offered. Guests will be guided through a brief history of chocolate and a step-by-step process for creating beautiful, ganache-filled truffles to take home. Enjoy a carefully curated glass of wine, selected to complement your experience. The class is approximately 60 minutes and includes one wine pairing. The class may be taken as a stand-alone or added to your tasting ticket.

The festival concludes with an after-party with music and dancing. Add a personal touch to your day at the DIY flower bar, where guests can create a beautiful bouquet to take home.

This popular event sells out each year. Attendees can pre-purchase tickets – $65 (chocolate + wine/beer), and $55 for designated drivers (no alcohol). The deliciously fun festival is only available for ages 21+.

Sweethearts or anyone with a sweet tooth can experience Escondido’s sweetest, all the while supporting local businesses. Check-in will take place at Will Call (where IDs will be checked), located at Maple Street Plaza, which is on Maple Street between Grand Avenue and West Valley Parkway.

Whether you’re a devoted chocolate enthusiast or simply seeking an elegant and engaging way to spend the day, the For the Love of Chocolate Festival promises a rich, immersive experience designed to delight the senses. For tickets and more information, visit www.downtownescondido.com/esco-choc-fest.