Every chocolate festival is as much about the people behind the scenes as it is about the indulgent treats on display. At ChocoFest, Alberta’s premier chocolate festival, attendees don’t just sample world-class chocolate—they get the opportunity to meet the chocolatiers and learn about the stories that inspire their craft. These local and international chocolate makers and international artisans bring unique flavours, techniques, and traditions that make ChocoFest an event to remember. In this behind-the-scenes look, we introduce some of the standout vendors and their journeys to perfecting the art of chocolate making.
1. The Passionate Local Innovators
One of the highlights of ChocoFest is the presence of dedicated local chocolatiers who infuse Alberta’s culture into every creation. Take Sweet Inspirations, for example, a family-owned business based in Edmonton that prides itself on using local ingredients like Alberta honey and prairie berries. The founder, a lifelong chocolate enthusiast, started with small-batch truffles sold at farmer’s markets. Now, their unique blend of traditional and modern recipes draws a line of excited customers.
2. The Art of Single-Origin Excellence
Another local gem, Rocky Mountain Bean & Bar, focuses on single-origin chocolates that showcase the unique profiles of cacao from different regions. By sourcing beans directly from sustainable farms in South America, they provide a tasting experience that’s as educational as it is delicious. Their founder shares, “Each batch tells the story of the region’s soil, climate, and farming traditions. Our goal is to share those stories and let people experience chocolate’s diversity.”
3. The International Influencers
ChocoFest isn’t just a showcase for local chocolate makers; it’s also a platform for international artisans who bring global techniques to Alberta. At ChocoFest, we love teaching attendees about pairing our chocolates to elevate the tasting experience. Our mission is to show how the art of chocolate can evolve.
4. Activities and Live Demos: Meet the Makers in Action
What sets ChocoFest apart is the opportunity to watch these artisans in action. Throughout the festival, attendees can join live demonstrations where chocolatiers reveal their secrets:
- Tempering Chocolate Techniques: Watch as local and international experts demonstrate how to temper chocolate to achieve that perfect glossy finish and satisfying snap.
- Handcrafted Truffle-Making: Learn from pros who share tips on crafting the perfect truffle, from choosing quality cocoa butter to infusing unique flavours.
5. A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Many artisans at ChocoFest balance respect for tradition with a flair for innovation. Cocoa Creatives, a vendor specializing in dairy-free and vegan chocolates, brings unique spins on classic flavours using plant-based ingredients.
6. Supporting Sustainable and Ethical Practices
One of the festival’s core missions is promoting sustainability, a value shared by many participating artisans. Vendors that ensure their chocolate is sourced from ethical, fair-trade farms. At ChocoFest, we get to share how each piece supports communities and eco-friendly farming.”
7. The Stories That Inspire
Each chocolatier at ChocoFest has a story that goes beyond the ingredients and recipes. Some started their journey as chefs pivoting into artisanal chocolate, while others turned their love for sweets into full-fledged businesses. These personal stories add a layer of connection that makes the festival special. Attendees can chat with these artisans to learn firsthand how their passion translates into the decadent chocolates they create.
Tips for Engaging with Artisans at ChocoFest
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the chocolatiers about their favourite creations, techniques, or the challenges they face in their craft.
- Attend Meet-and-Greets: ChocoFest schedules meet-and-greet sessions where you can have one-on-one conversations with the vendors.
- Try Limited-Edition Offerings: Many artisans use ChocoFest to showcase limited-run or experimental flavours, so be sure to sample these exclusive treats.
Conclusion
Meeting the artisans behind ChocoFest is like unlocking the soul of the festival. Each vendor, whether a local chocolate maker or an international name, contributes their own story, expertise, and passion for chocolate. These behind-the-scenes interactions not only enhance the tasting experience but also foster a deeper appreciation for the artistry that goes into each confection.
Join us at ChocoFest to taste, learn, and meet the talented chocolatiers who make it all possible. Whether you’re there for the live demos, activities, or simply to chat with your favourite artisan, the festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with the people who turn cacao into magic.
