Nicosia Chocolate Festival was founded last year, making this the second annual event for the organiser Nicoletta Orphanou. “I started the Chocolate Festival last year with help from just friends and family,” said the chocolate-lover and smiled. “And we were simply amazed by the response. We had far more visitors than we’d expected; it was packed! So this year, we’ve sought professional help from event organisers and moved to a much bigger venue, which has allowed us to add even more events and happenings.”
Tastings, shows, lessons, exhibitions, workshops, entertainment… it’s all going to be there at the Chocolate Festival this coming weekend: a paradise for anyone – and let’s face it, that’s pretty much all of us – who loves chocolate. “We’re trying to present all sorts of unusual things,” explained Nicoletta; “aspects of chocolate you don’t normally get to see or try. So as well as all the stands, there will be all sorts of other activities too.”
Two huge chocolate fountains from Chocoflow will take centre stage, surrounded by stands offering everything from chocolate crepes to chocolate pastries. “There will be every type of chocolate you can imagine,” said Nicoletta: “Zivania chocolate, Commandaria chocolate, chilli chocolate ice cream. And we’re also hosting a private workshop by renowned sommelier and Cyprus Mail wine writer George Kassianos on wine and chocolate pairing, as well as a lecture on the healthy benefits of chocolate in all its forms.”
There will be books on chocolate, organic chocolate, chocolate made with a sugar substitute for diabetics and dieters, and even chocolate Christmas trees and gifts to take home. And on top of all this, there’s a chocolate showpiece contest featuring chocolate professionals, a chocolate photo competition for the general public (first prize being a trip to Athens!) and two ‘living chocolate statues’ – street artists flying in especially from Portugal who are undoubtedly going to have a hard time avoiding being bitten! And if it’s all getting a bit much, you can drop the kids at the special children’s activity corner and head outside for a breath of fresh air and a sustaining glass of mulled wine.
When and where?
December 6 and 7, from 11am to 8pm at Unicafe in Engomi, Nicosia (former Peugeot showroom). For more information, including competition details, visit http://www.nicosiachocolate.com or the Facebook page Nicosia Chocolate Festival. Entrance is €5, children under 12 free.
