We can’t wait to see you at the Northwest Chocolate Festival this weekend!
At this year's festival you'll find more than a hundred exhibitors, an extensive program of events, and more chocolate than any one palate can sensibly handle. A little preparation is highly recommended.
Chief Chocophile Lauren is presenting twice:
Saturday, 10am: "Chocolate 101: What Every Craft Chocolate Lover Should Know"
Sunday, Noon: "The Three Things That Actually Matter on a Chocolate Label"
You can also say hi to Lauren at the FCIA booth from 4-6pm on Saturday.
A ticket tip before we start: get 20% off tickets with the code NWchocolate2026. You can buy tickets at nwchocolate.com
Here are ten top tips for the festival…
1. Take palate cleansers
Plain water, unsalted crackers and a few slices of green apple all do the job. Use them between makers so you can taste samples more accurately.
2. Eat a solid breakfast with protein and low sugar
You have a long weekend of chocolate tasting ahead of you. Eggs, beans or yogurt will carry you further than a pastry, and starting on a full stomach will prevent an early sugar crash.
3. Plan ahead and visit your favourite makers early
Be sure to read the exhibitor list online. Shortlist the makers you already love, then add a few you've never tried. Head to your favourites first, because the most popular bars can sell out fast.
If you’re a member of The Chocolate Explorers Club, you can download a spreadsheet of makers from the community forum on the member website to help you plan.
4. Be selective and pace yourself
It's a lot of chocolate. You won’t be able to taste every bar from every maker, so be strategic!
5. Leave room in your luggage for the trip home
Pack lighter than you think you need to, because you'll come home with a lot more chocolate than you left with. If you have a long journey home, be sure to wrap your chocolate in clothes or an insulated bag, and keep them away from anything warm.
6. Plan your budget, then expect to double it
Set a budget before you go, then be honest with yourself: you'll probably spend twice that. Makers travel with limited stock, some bars only turn up at festivals, and it's hard to say no to something you taste on the spot and love.
7. Talk to the makers
Ask about the bean origin, the roast, and what they'd taste first. Two minutes of conversation often ends with a recommendation that’s tailored to your own taste.
8. Take notes as you go
By the twentieth sample, things can start to blur. Jot down the makers and bars that stood out, on your phone or in a small notebook, so you know what to buy before you leave and what to hunt down later.
9. Step off the floor for a talk or workshop
The program includes an incredible range of presentations, panel discussions and chef demonstrations. Give your palate a rest while you keep learning, and break up a long day on your feet. This year the talks are in a separate building, so be sure to allow enough time to walk to and from the main festival.
10. Come prepared for the practicalities
Wear comfortable shoes, and bring a water bottle, hand cleaner for sticky fingers and a sturdy tote for your haul. A power bank is worth packing too, since notes and photos drain a phone faster than you'd expect.
If a weekend of tasting leaves you wanting more, that's what The Chocolate Explorers Club is for. Each month, members receive a curated box of small-batch bars from award-winning makers around the world, with tasting notes, pairing tips and access to a community of fellow chocolate lovers.
