City of Fairfax, VA
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Schedule of Events
Festival events are suitable for all ages and all locations are accessible. All of the events are located in the heart of the City of Fairfax including the City of Fairfax Regional Library, Fire Station 3, Old Town Hall, Old Town Square, and the Historic Fairfax Courthouse.
All venues are free to get into to, but there will be fees to taste/sample items at certain events. Events that may require a fee are identified on the schedule, and on event day signage.
Due to the nature of the Chocolate Lovers Festival, sanitary food conditions are of the highest priority. For this reason, and the comfort and safety of all participants, there are no animals allowed inside any event site, with the exception of certified service animals, as defined by the ADA.
2025 Event Schedule
Scroll down for more specific event information!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31
BONITA LESTINA OLD TOWN HALL PERFORMANCE SERIES PRESENTS:
BOOTSIE AND THE GROOVE
AND FEATURED CHOCOLATIER
8PM
STACY C. SHERWOOD CENTER - 3740 BLENHEIM BLVD.
TASTE OF CHOCOLATE
Saturday, February 1
10AM - 5PM (Doors close at 4:30PM)
Sunday, February 2 Noon - 4PM
(Doors close at 3:30PM)
Old Town Hall
3999 University Drive
$1 = 1 POG = 1 Tasting
The Taste of Chocolate event in Fairfax City is a delightful celebration for chocolate lovers, typically featuring a variety of rich, decadent chocolate treats from local bakeries, chocolatiers, and food vendors. Attendees can expect to indulge in everything from creamy truffles and velvety chocolate fondue to innovative chocolate-inspired desserts. Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, there's something for every palate to savor and enjoy!
VENDOR LIST
Babylon Chocolates
Blended Desserts
Cameron's Coffee and Chocolates
Capital Candy Jar
Capitol Chocolate Fountains
Dilly Cakes
El Ceibo Chocolate
Lammar Marie's Gourmet Popcorn
Le Papiyon chocolatier
Mike's Fudge
Mother Clusters
Nothing Bundt Cakes
Scrummy Gorgeous
The Sweet Life Cakery
Tysons Creamery
Event presented by: Independence Day Celebration Committee
LIQUID CHOCOLATE
DELAYED OPENING! UPDATED TIMES!
Friday, January 31 - Delayed due to weather
Saturday, February 1
10AM- 5PM
Old Town Square
10415 North Street
$1 = Non-Alcoholic Tasting Ticket
$2 = Alcoholic Tasting Ticket
The Liquid Chocolate event in Fairfax City is a deliciously unique experience for chocolate lovers who enjoy sipping their sweet treats. At this special event, you’ll have the chance to indulge in rich, smooth, and velvety liquid chocolate in various forms, from hot chocolate to chocolate-infused beverages. Alongside the decadent chocolate drinks, local wineries and breweries will offer delightful pairings, showcasing their finest wines and craft beers. For those looking for something refreshing, there will be chocolate-inspired smoothies and sodas to enjoy as well. With a variety of liquid chocolate options, from creamy and warm to cool and fizzy, this event is a must for anyone with a passion for sweet, flavorful drinks.
HOT CHOCOLATE BAR
Sunday, February 2
Noon - 3PM
Old Town Square
10415 North Street
$3 = Non-Alcoholic Beverage & 3 Toppings
$5 = Alcoholic Beverage & 3 Topping
$0.50 = for each additional topping
The Hot Chocolate Bar event is a sweet and interactive experience that allows you to customize your own perfect cup of hot chocolate. Whether you like it extra rich and creamy or with a unique twist, you'll have a variety of toppings, mix-ins, and flavors to choose from. Load up your creation with marshmallows, whipped cream, drizzles, syrups, crushed candy canes, and even a touch of spice for those who want a little kick! Whether you're a chocolate purist or love experimenting with new flavors, this DIY hot chocolate bar offers endless possibilities to create your own cozy, personalized drink.
The vibrant atmosphere makes it the perfect outing for friends, families, and chocolate aficionados alike with plenty of opportunities for creativity!
Events presented by: Fairfax City Parks and Recreation
BONITA LESTINA OLD TOWN HALL PERFORMANCE SERIES PRESENT:
BOOTSIE AND THE GROOVE
Friday, January 31
8PM
Stacy C. Sherwood Center
3740 Blenheim Blvd.
Get ready to groove and indulge as Bootsie and The Groove take the stage at the Chocolate Lovers Festival Concert! This high-energy band brings a mix of funky rhythms, soulful beats, and smooth melodies that will have you dancing and tapping your feet all night long. Known for their infectious energy and tight musical performance, they blend classic funk, R&B, and jazz influences, creating an exciting and engaging atmosphere perfect for a sweet evening out. While you enjoy their dynamic sound, a talented pastry chef will be on hand to share their expert craft, offering a tantalizing array of sweet treats. Experience the perfect fusion of music and chocolate, as Bootsie and the Groove provide the soundtrack to a night of indulgence, fun, and flavorful treats. It’s an event that promises to satisfy both your musical and chocolate cravings in one unforgettable experience!
Event presented by: Fairfax City Parks and Recreation
FAIRFAX COUNTY REGIONAL LIBRARY
CHILDREN ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
10360 North Street
Saturday, February 1
10AM - 5PM: "Make and Take" Crafts
(while supplies last)
10:30AM - 3PM: Focus Family TKD - Free Balloon Animals
11AM: Rainbow Puppets
2PM: Rainbow Puppets
Sunday, February 2
10AM - 5PM: "Make and Take" Crafts
(while supplies last)
10:30AM - 3PM: Focus Family TKD - Free Balloon Animals
11AM: Jonathan Austin - Juggler, Jokester, Magician!
2PM: Rocknoceros - Kids Rock Band
The Fairfax County Regional Library is the place to be for families at the Chocolate Lovers Festival with a weekend packed full of fun, interactive activities for kids of all ages! The Fairfax County Regional Library is the perfect place for families to enjoy a day of fun, laughter, and chocolate-filled adventure!
Event presented by:
City of Fairfax Regional Library and the Friends of the City of Fairfax Regional Library
THE SWEET MILE - CANCELLED!!
Saturday, February 1
9AM
Fire Station 3
4081 University Drive
Get ready to run for a sweet cause at The Sweet Mile—a fun and festive 1-mile run hosted by the Community Cares Project as part of the Chocolate Lovers Festival! Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to get moving, this spirited event is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Enjoy a cheerful atmosphere along the way in your commemorative beanie. It’s not just about the run—it's about coming together as a community to support a great cause. Plus, after crossing the finish line, you'll be rewarded with sweet treats to satisfy your chocolate cravings! Lace up your sneakers, join the fun, and be part of a mile-long celebration of fitness, community, and, of course, chocolate!
Event presented by: The Community Care Project and the City of Fairfax
HISTORIC COURTHOUSE
Saturday, February 1
10AM - 3PM: Historic Archives and Fingerprinting Services
10AM: Children's Mock Trial - Wolf v. Pig
12PM: "So You Think You're Smarter Than A Lawyer?" Game Show
Historic Courthouse
4000 Chain Bridge Road
Step back in time and experience history with a sweet twist at the Historic Courthouse during the Chocolate Lovers Festival! the city's Historic Courthouse comes alive with fun, interactive events for all ages. Explore the Historic Archives and take part in Fingerprinting Services—a unique opportunity to learn about local history and how the law has evolved over time.
Young future lawyers can enjoy the Children's Mock Trial, where they’ll have a blast participating in this whimsical courtroom drama! Then, get ready for some friendly competition with the “So You Think You’re Smarter Than A Lawyer?” Game Show, where you can test your knowledge and see if you have what it takes to outsmart a legal expert in a fun and lively quiz format.
With a blend of history and legal fun the Historic Courthouse offers an unforgettable experience for families and anyone who loves a good challenge!
Event presented by: Fairfax Bar Association
HARLEY EYE CANDY
Saturday, February 1
10AM - 3PM
Sunday, February 2
Noon - 3PM
Fairfax County Regional Library
10360 North Street
Rev your engines and get ready for an adventure at the Chocolate Lovers Festival with a chance to check out a stunning Harley Davidson Motorcycle up close! Feel the thrill as you sit on this iconic bike, snap a photo, and imagine cruising down open roads, wind in your hair, and the freedom of a cross-country ride. It’s your chance to channel your inner adventurer, all while surrounded by the sweet sights and sounds of the festival. Don’t miss out on this ride-worthy moment—grab your friends, strike a pose, and start dreaming of the open road!
Event presented by: Patriot Harley Davidson Owner's Group
RATCLIFFE-ALLISON-POZER HOUSE TOURS
Saturday, February 1
12PM - 4PM
Sunday, February 2
1PM - 3PM
10386 Main Street
Step back in time and experience the charm of Fairfax’s history with a tour of the Ratcliffe-Allison-Pozer House! This beautifully preserved historic gem offers a glimpse into life in the 18th and 19th centuries, with knowledgeable guides sharing fascinating stories about the house and its rich heritage. Explore the rooms and architecture that have stood the test of time. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, this tour is a sweet opportunity to immerse yourself in the past while enjoying the festival atmosphere. It’s a perfect mix of culture, history, and fun—don’t miss it!
Event presented by: Office of Historic Resources
CONSTRUCT A CUPCKAE
Sunday, February 2
Noon - 3PM
(While supplies last)
Fairfax Ace Hardware
10310-B Main Street
Minimum $5 Donation per Cupcake
Proceeds go to the Children's National Hospital
Unleash your inner pastry chef at the Construct a Cupcake event over at Fairfax Ace Hardware for a sweet and creative treat-making experience. You’ll have everything you need to build your dream cupcake—fluffy frosting, colorful sprinkles, decadent toppings, and more! Whether you’re a frosting artist or just love indulging in a tasty creation, this hands-on activity is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and show off your decorating skills. Don’t miss out—come and craft your own cupcake masterpiece!
Event presented by: Fairfax Ace Hardware
MAKE-YOUR-OWN CHOCOLATE BAR
Saturday, February 1
10AM - 5PM
Sunday, February 2
Noon - 4PM
Old Town Square
10415 North Street
$5 per person
Get ready for the ultimate chocolate experience at the Make Your Own Chocolate Bar event! This sweet activity lets you craft your very own personalized chocolate bar, starting with a rich, smooth base of premium chocolate. From there, the fun begins as you choose from a variety of delicious toppings to create a treat that’s uniquely yours. Whether you go for classic combos or get creative, this hands-on event is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings and unleash your inner chocolatier. Don’t miss out on the chance to design your dream chocolate bar!
Event presented by: Mason Culinary Club
FAIRFAX MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTER OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, February 1
11AM - 4PM
Sunday, February 2
11AM - 4PM
10209 Main Street
Discover the rich history of Fairfax at the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center Open House! Step inside this charming museum to explore fascinating exhibits about the city’s past, from its colonial beginnings to its role in shaping the community today. With free admission during the festival, it’s the perfect opportunity to learn about Fairfax’s history while enjoying the sweet atmosphere of the event. Whether you're a local history enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this open house offers a delightful and educational escape. Stop by and immerse yourself in the stories that make Fairfax truly special!
Event presented by: Office of Historic Resources
MUSICAL CAKES
Saturday, February 1
10AM - 4PM
(While supplies last)
Sunday, February 2
Noon - 3PM
(While supplies last)
Old Town Square
10415 North Street
$5 per entry
Get ready for a fun, sweet twist on a classic favorite with Musical Cakes at the Chocolate Lovers Festival! This deliciously entertaining activity combines the excitement of music with the chance to win scrumptious treats. Here’s how it works: participants walk around a circle of numbers while the music plays. When the music stops, the numbers are called, and if you're standing on the right one, you win a mouthwatering cake! It’s a game of chance, but with the sweetest reward—freshly baked cakes ready for you to enjoy. Whether you're a regular winner or just here for the fun, Musical Cakes promises laughter, excitement, and plenty of delicious moments!
Event presented by: Kiwanis Club of Fairfax
GOLDEN TICKET
Sold at various locations! $5 per bar!
Get ready for a sweet surprise! As you indulge in delicious chocolate bars from local businesses at the festival or around town, you could be the lucky one to find a Golden Ticket inside! For just $5 per bar, unwrap your chance to win a fabulous gift basket filled with an assortment of goodies, gift cards, and surprises from local favorites, courtesy of the Old Town Fairfax Business Association and the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream with a golden twist—so grab your bar, unwrap the fun, and you might just take home the sweetest prize in town!
CHOCOLATE BARS CAN BE BOUGHT AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
Fairfax Ace Hardware (10310-B Main St., Fairfax)
Lucy Loves (10414 Main St., Fairfax)
Mode on Main by Mara (10417 Main St., Fairfax)
Paradise Games and Gifts (10385 Main St., Fairfax)
Gaming Giant (4021 University Dr., Fairfax)
Joy Unlimited (10400 Main St., Fairfax)
Perfect Mistakes Boutique (10428 Main St., Fairfax)
Merle Norman Cosmetics (3975 University Dr., Fairfax)
Event presented by:
Old Town Fairfax Business Association
Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce
CUE Bus
Saturday, February 1
11AM - 3PM
Old Town Square
10415 North Street
Sweeten Your Day with CUE at the Chocolate Lovers Festival!
Join us for a delightful treat—and we’re not just talking about the chocolate! Hop aboard one of our CUE buses where you can warm up, share your thoughts in a quick survey, and help shape the future of our community. Plus, enjoy a little sweet treat while you’re at it! It’s a fun, cozy way to indulge in both community feedback and chocolatey goodness. Don’t miss out—come for the sweets, stay for the conversation!
Event presented by: City of Fairfax Transportation Department
OLD TOWN FAIRFAX CHOCOLATE STROLL
Weekend of Chocolate Lovers Festival
Please check with individual businesses
The Chocolate Lovers Festival isn’t just about enjoying sweet treats at the event—it’s also a great opportunity to explore the amazing local businesses in Old Town Fairfax! While you’re at the festival, be sure to check out these participating businesses and their special chocolate-themed offerings! This exciting lineup is brought to you by the Old Town Fairfax Business Association (OTFBA), dedicated to supporting and showcasing our amazing local businesses. Stay tuned as more businesses and restaurants join in to share their chocolate-inspired creations!
- The Commons Fooderie - Warm up with their Hot Chocolate, White Chocolate Mocha Latte, and Mocha Latte!
- Mackenzie's Tunes & Tonics - Flourless chocolate cake, good tunes, and good tonics!
- Merle Norman Cosmetics - Shop their gorgeous chocolate-inspired cosmetics!
- Sun & Moon Yoga - Start your Chocolate Festival weekend with Sweet Spots on Friday at 7 PM: a luxurious, chocolate-inspired restorative yoga class featuring slow, soothing releases to melt into bliss. Continue the indulgence all weekend with chocolate-themed classes, including Vinyasa (flowing movements like dark chocolate melting seamlessly), Tone & Stretch (a sweet blend of yoga and Pilates), and Hatha (gentle and grounding practices for all levels). Visit www.sunandmoonstudio.com for full details about our classes and workshops.
- Victoria's Cakery - OPEN SATURDAY ONLY - Enjoy their freshly-baked chocolate cupcakes!
- Perfect Mistakes - Silky smooth scarves, sleek linen pants, deliciously adorable earrings, ART and more! Perfect Mistakes will have a range of items on sale for the festival weekend.
- Commonwealth Brewing Company - Sip on their indulgent chocolate-inspired brews, like the Marvolo Imperial Nitro Chocolate Stout or the Not My Gumdrop Buttons Gingerbread Stout with Chocolate. Pair your drink with freshly made beignets, served with house-made chocolate, caramel, or berry jam. Don’t miss their Campfire Vibes latte or the Yurtle Turtle macchiato for a coffee treat!
- Lucy Loves - Lucy Loves will have a visiting bakery vendor at their location! Enjoy the chocolate offerings and explore their sweet vintage finds.
- Bellissimo - Dive into their Italian cuisine for lunch and enjoy their Chocolate Mousse for dessert!
- Paradise Games & Gifts - Have fun with their sweet chocolate and dessert inspired board games!
- Fauna Latin Flavor - Indulge in their delicious in-house-made chocolate cake and hot chocolate! All ingredients made from scratch for the most delicious flavor!
- Kelly's Oyster House & Bar - Stop by for fresh oysters and enjoy their chocolate delight cake and homemade ice cream: black raspberry chocolate chip or mint chocolate chip for dessert!
- Forever Enchanted Candle Co. - Enjoy the sweet aroma of chocolate with their exclusive chocolate fudge candle with notes of vanilla, cream, hazelnut, chocolate, sugar, and praline.
Event presented by: Old Town Fairfax Business Association