Upcoming Cape & Islands Fairs and Festivals

Art of Chocolate Festival • October 10-11

This Event is Sure to be Sweet!

Imagine a room filled from wall to wall with nothing but chocolate. Sound like a dream? For one weekend every fall, this sweet-sounding scenario becomes reality in the island town of Oak Bluffs. On Saturday and Sunday, October 10-11, from 12-4 p.m., the Art of Chocolate Festival showcases some of Martha’s Vineyard’s top chocolatiers.

Held at the Featherstone Center for the Arts, 30 Featherstone Lane in Oak Bluffs, the 12th annual autumn festival is sure to have something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Attendees can try varieties of chocolate cake, truffles, candies, a sundae station, a chocolate fountain, and lots more.

“The event started out featuring classic chocolate treats,” says Emme Brown, one of the festival’s coordinators, “but now the vendors are getting more creative as far as what they’re bringing to the table.” In recent years, Brown says participants involved have been raising the bar in terms of the sweet surprises they’re preparing—from intricate cake designs and uniquely made truffles to sea salt caramels and chocolate bars made with island honey.

The festival is not all about eating, though. Brown says the event is intended to simulate a variety of senses—in addition to one’s taste buds. For example, a selection of chocolate-inspired artwork created by local artists will be on display, including appetizing paintings and photos of cocoa beans and chocolate treats. A “chocolate library” features books with chocolate recipes and details on how the cocoa bean is harvested. Attendees can also view an exhibit that shows the different processes of chocolate making, from bean to bar.

“There’s a longstanding tradition of people coming back for a few items every year,” Brown says, “but they know there will always be new things as well.” Tickets to try the treats cost $5 for two tastes, $10 for five. For more information, visit featherstoneart.org, or call 508-693-1850.