ChocoFest transforms Sherwood Park into a chocolate lover’s paradise, captivating thousands with its artisanal creations, family-friendly activities, and lively entertainment. But what does it take to bring this magical event to life? Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of organizers, chocolatiers, and volunteers work tirelessly to craft an unforgettable experience.
In this exclusive look behind the curtain, we uncover the passion, planning, and precision that make ChocoFest Alberta’s premier chocolate festival.
The Vision Behind ChocoFest
ChocoFest was born from a simple yet ambitious idea: to create an event that celebrates the art of chocolate-making while bringing the community together.
Key Goals of ChocoFest:
- Showcase the craftsmanship of local and international chocolatiers.
- Provide a platform for ethical and sustainable chocolate practices.
- Offer a family-friendly event that appeals to all ages.
According to event founder J’Anne Monteleone, “our mission is to craft an immersive and engaging experience for families, foodies and vendors that celebrates the magic of chocolate while creating a blend of love, fun, and togetherness.”
Months of Planning and Preparation
The magic of ChocoFest begins months before the first booth is set up. Planning starts nearly a year in advance, ensuring every detail aligns with the festival’s vision.
1. Securing the Perfect Venue Millennium Place in Sherwood Park is more than just a location; it’s the heart of the festival. Its spacious halls, family-friendly facilities, and convenient accessibility make it an ideal setting for ChocoFest’s diverse activities.
2. Building a Stellar Vendor Lineup From small-batch chocolatiers to global brands, ChocoFest’s vendor lineup is carefully curated to offer a mix of traditional and innovative chocolate creations. The selection process includes:
- Vetting vendors for quality and sustainability.
- Prioritizing fair-trade and ethical practices.
- Ensuring a variety of dietary-friendly options, such as vegan and gluten-free treats.
3. Creating Engaging Activities From the ChocoKids Zone to live chocolate-making demonstrations, every activity is meticulously planned to enhance the attendee experience. Organizers collaborate with local artists, educators, and performers to bring fresh and exciting ideas to the festival.
The People Who Make It Happen
Behind every great festival is a team of passionate individuals dedicated to making it a success. At ChocoFest, this team includes:
1. Event Organizers – The core team oversees logistics, marketing, and vendor coordination. They are the architects of the festival, ensuring that every detail is in place.
2. Chocolatiers and Vendors – The stars of the show, chocolatiers bring their creativity and expertise to ChocoFest. Each vendor contributes unique flavors and innovations, from bean-to-bar chocolates to indulgent truffles.
3. Volunteers – Volunteers are the unsung heroes of ChocoFest. They assist with setup, manage activities, and ensure the event runs smoothly, all while sharing their enthusiasm with attendees.
The Final Countdown: Setting the Stage
As the festival date approaches, the energy behind the scenes reaches its peak. The week leading up to ChocoFest is a flurry of activity:
- Booth Setup: Vendors arrive to set up their displays, transforming the venue into a chocolate wonderland.
- Technical Rehearsals: Sound checks and stage setups ensure that mainstage entertainment runs seamlessly.
- Final Touches: Decorations, signage, and last-minute details are completed to perfection.
Quote from J’Anne Monteleone: “With tasting samples and entertaining activities, we aim to ignite feelings of happiness, delight, and joy, creating lasting memories. ChocoFest is a celebration of chocolate where every moment is as tasty as it is enjoyable.”
Opening Day: The Magic Unfolds
When the festival gates open, attendees are greeted with the aroma of chocolate and the buzz of excitement. For organizers, this is the culmination of their efforts.
Highlights of Opening Day:
- The ChocoKids Zone brims with laughter and creativity.
- Live demonstrations captivate audiences as chocolatiers craft their masterpieces.
- Vendors showcase their products, inviting visitors to taste and explore.
What Makes ChocoFest Unique
While many festivals celebrate food and culture, ChocoFest’s dedication to quality, community, and sustainability sets it apart.
1. A Family-Friendly Atmosphere ChocoFest welcomes attendees of all ages, offering activities and entertainment for everyone from kids to grandparents.
2. A Focus on Education Through demonstrations, attendees gain a deeper appreciation for the art and science of chocolate-making.
3. A Celebration of Local Talent By featuring local chocolatiers and performers, ChocoFest highlights the creativity and passion within the community.
Conclusion
Bringing ChocoFest to life is no small feat, but the passion and dedication of its organizers, chocolatiers, and volunteers make it all possible. Behind the scenes, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure that attendees experience the magic of chocolate in all its forms.
As you stroll through the festival, savouring artisan chocolates and enjoying lively entertainment, take a moment to appreciate the effort that goes into creating this remarkable event. ChocoFest is more than a festival; it’s a labour of love, and it’s waiting for you this April 25-26, 2025, at Millennium Place in Sherwood Park.
For tickets and more information, visit chocofest.ca. See you there!
