Chocolate lovers have an even sweeter excuse to discover Belize, as the annual “Chocolate Festival of Belize” provides 3-days of indulgence starting May 24 – 26, 2013!  With rooted Maya history in cacao production, this anticipated event captures the traditional and modern chocolate making procedures, fun activities, chocolate inspired dishes and beverages, along with great cultural entertainment!

Toledo District, the chocolate mecca of Belize, offers a wealth of adventures year-round and great deals (particularly) during this 3-day event.  Family and friends, this is your opportunity to engage the cacao farmers and chocolatiers on the production process, as well as the touring of cacao farms and chocolate factories.  The weekend starts with a, ticket only, “Wine, Chocolate and Belikin Night”, held at the (nature-inspired) Belcampo Lodge, west of Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District.

Activities:

• Friday, May 24, 2013: “Wine, Chocolate and Belikin Night”.  Enjoy a full night of chocolate decadence with an array of delectable creations and the anticipated unveiling of the Belikin Chocolate Stout.  Relish in the festivities, as live musical entertainment by the Blue Crreek Marimba and the Jazz Quartet that will create the perfect ambiance.
• Saturday, May 25, 2013: “Street Fair”. This event will be held (from 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.) in Punta Gorda Town on Front Street, and is an open event providing a wealth of chocolate-based food and beverages.  With the enchantment of cultural (Maya, Garifuna, Mestizo, Creole and East Indian) music and dance  performances, cacao, chocolate and art booths, along with fun children games and great tour specials available, this is a festive day for the entire family!
• Sunday, May 26, 2013: The “Lubaantun Finale”, is a grand event held at the beautiful ancient Maya temple of Lubaantun, northwest of Punta Gorda Town (entrance fee Adults $10 High Schools $5 and Primary Schools $2).  Expect a fun-filled day of: cacao husking, cacao grinding and cacao drinking competitions, food, cacao, and art booths on display.  Witness the four stages of cacao production, as well as live entertainment by the Blue Creek Marimba, Ernestine Carballo and Grupo Indigeno Maya.  This festive day will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

There’s no better time to become familiar with Belize, start planning for the ultimate vacation experience!