First Chocolate Festival held in Robbinsville
By Matthew Miller
The Graham Star
Robbinsville – It was a day late, but well worth the wait.
The first-ever Chocolate Festival took place at Robbinsville High School on Sunday. Originally planned for Saturday, wintery weather caused the organizers to postpone the festival to the following day.
Proceeds from the event went to both the Graham County Schools Exceptional Children Department and the Special Olympics. In the end, roughly $3,500 was generated by the event.
Vendor booths were open to the public, and a chocolate tasting was held during the festival for ticket holders. Two events were held, in which participants would taste 21 chocolate treats, judge each one and vote for their favorite chocolatier to be the Chocolate King or Queen. Businesses and individual community members alike put their best efforts towards making delicious treats for participants to taste and judge. Some of the many samples given to participants include chocolate covered popcorn, pretzels and bacon.
Yes, bacon.
Tickets to these events were given to patrons, in exchange for a $10 donation. Within one week of advertisement, the available 250 tickets were sold to school staff, students and members of the community.
“This is wonderful,” stated Deborah Cheney. “There is such a huge variety of chocolates to taste.”
Between tastings, various cakes and products – donated by community members and businesses – were raffled and auctioned off. Over 15 vendor booths were set up, with anything from jerky to books being sold.
“We would love to come back next year,” said Cynthia Garren, who had set up a Tupperware booth. “It’s a great event and a lot of fun.”
The festival was a great success. Many students and teachers helped organize and set up the event.
“We are very happy with the turnout. We sold out quickly and people seem to be having a great time.” stated Christy Cable, an organizer of the festival.
“It has been a lot of work for everyone and it is paying off.”