As the winter chill sets in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a cup of rich, decadent hot chocolate. Luckily for Calgarians, February brings the return of the much-anticipated Calgary Hot Chocolate Festival—a month-long celebration dedicated to the art of crafting the perfect cup of cocoa.
Organized by Calgary Meals on Wheels, this annual festival isn’t just about indulging in creative and comforting hot chocolates—it’s also about giving back to the community. Every purchase of a participating hot chocolate contributes to supporting this local charity, making each sip even sweeter.
How the Festival Works
Running throughout February, the Calgary Hot Chocolate Festival invites cafés, restaurants, and chocolatiers across the city to showcase their most inventive and delicious hot chocolate creations. From classic favorites to unexpected flavour pairings, the festival is a playground for chocolate lovers looking to try something new.
Each participating business crafts a signature hot chocolate, available for a limited time during the festival. Attendees can visit as many locations as they like, sampling the wide array of options and voting for their favourites online. The most-loved drinks will be crowned winners in categories such as Best Hot Chocolate, Best Spirited Hot Chocolate, and Most Creative.
For a full list of participating locations and flavours, check out the festival’s official website: yychotchocolate.com.
A Feast for the Senses
One of the festival’s biggest draws is its creativity. Each year, local businesses push the boundaries of traditional hot chocolate, crafting unique flavours that are as delightful to look at as they are to taste. Some past highlights have included:
- Chili-infused Mexican hot chocolates with a spicy kick
- Matcha and white chocolate blends for a fusion twist
- Caramel, hazelnut, and toasted marshmallow masterpieces
- Boozy variations featuring Baileys, Kahlúa, or spiced rum
No two cups are alike, ensuring a new and exciting experience for festival-goers each year. Whether you’re a fan of the classic creamy cocoa or an adventurous sipper looking for wild and bold flavours, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
How to Get Involved
Participating in the festival is easy:
Check out the list of participating cafés and restaurants on yychotchocolate.com.
Visit different locations and try their featured hot chocolates.
Rate and review your favourites online to help crown this year’s champions.
Share your experience on social media using #YYCHotChocolateFest to spread the word.
For those who want to take their involvement a step further, the festival also encourages direct donations to Calgary Meals on Wheels and even offers sponsorship opportunities for local businesses.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Calgary Hot Chocolate Festival is more than just a seasonal event—it’s a celebration of local businesses, culinary creativity, and community spirit. It transforms the simple joy of drinking hot chocolate into a city-wide experience that supports a meaningful cause.
So this February, don’t settle for an ordinary cup of cocoa. Explore, indulge, and make a difference—one sip at a time.
For all the details, visit yychotchocolate.com.
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