Chocolate Festival, the Queen of Sweet Delights

Chocolate festivals are popular worldwide, and Opatija is no exception. From November 10th to 12th, this gem of Kvarner is hosting the 17th edition of the Chocolate Festival, which splendidly celebrates the queen of sweet treats. With a diverse program that includes presentations by some of the finest local and international chocolatiers, tastings, workshops, art displays, and cultural activities, the festival offers something for everyone. It’s an excellent opportunity to satisfy your chocolate cravings, learn more about the art of chocolate-making, and enjoy the beautiful setting of Opatija.

Location
The main part of the program takes place at the Gervais Center, a long-standing cultural hub in Opatija. However, just like chocolate, the festival’s offerings will be everywhere, with numerous hotels, restaurants, bars, and other hospitality establishments participating. Don’t limit yourself to just one location; visit multiple venues and experience chocolate with all your senses!

Chocolate Producers
The central element and one of the highlights of every chocolate festival is the opportunity to sample and purchase a wide range of chocolate products from local and international producers. You can expect to find chocolate in various forms, from chocolate bars, sticks, and pralines to innovative chocolate creations. Some exhibitors, especially local ones, will offer unique and exotic flavors that you won’t find elsewhere, such as chocolate with truffles. This part of the festival is a must-visit if you find yourself in Opatija that weekend.

Presentations, Concerts, Workshops…
In addition to tasting and purchasing chocolate products, the Chocolate Festival offers various other activities to acquaint you with the queen of sweets. For example, you can learn about the chocolate production process, try your hand at making chocolate, or even create sculptures, paintings, or dresses made of chocolate. There are also daily accompanying concerts, and you can attend a fashion show featuring chocolate dresses and accessories. Who would have thought chocolate could be so much fun?

Gastronomic Program
The Gastro Choco is a separate part of the festival that brings together hospitality establishments—hotels, restaurants, bars—that will adapt and “chocolate-ize” their gastronomic offerings for this occasion. In addition to the obligatory chocolate desserts, you can taste chocolate cocktails, chocolate pizzas, steaks, pasta, or salads with chocolate. To complete the experience, you can also enjoy live music performances. Keep in mind that seating in these establishments is limited, so it’s advisable to make reservations in advance to ensure an uninterrupted enjoyment of this gastronomic enchantment.

Spa Program
Opatija has been renowned for centuries as a spa and wellness destination, and the Chocolate Festival continues that tradition. The Choco Spa program gathers hotels and wellness centers that will offer visitors massages with warm chocolate, cocoa butter, or chocolate oil, harnessing all the benefits that the combination of massage and chocolate has for the skin. Book a massage appointment and, after exploring the chocolate booths and accompanying activities, relax with the scent and gentle touch of chocolate.

If you plan to visit the Chocolate Festival in Opatija, this sweet celebration of one of everyone’s favorite treats, it’s important to plan your accommodation and travel arrangements in advance. Make sure to secure your accommodation ahead of time, and you’ll discover top-notch accommodation options on the Molo Longo agency’s website.