American Chocolate Week

American Chocolate Week celebrates chocolate in its many forms during the third full week of March. It is a chance to enjoy familiar favorites, sample different varieties, and appreciate the versatility of a treat that can become candy, drinks, cakes, cookies, and other desserts. A contemporary account of the observance describes it as a week dedicated to chocolate and its background.

Chocolate is made from cacao beans, which are naturally bitter before fermentation develops their familiar flavor. The history of chocolate reaches back to ancient Mesoamerica, where cacao was cultivated and made into a beverage; it reached Europe in the 1500s and later became more widely available as production methods developed. By the 19th century, solid chocolate had begun transforming the treat into the forms enjoyed today. This overview of chocolate’s history follows that journey from Mesoamerican cacao to modern confections.

The holiday’s organizer metadata identifies the Chocolate Manufacturers Association as its founder in 1990; that association was absorbed by the National Confectioners Association in 2008. During the week, people may explore new flavors, prepare chocolate desserts, share chocolate gifts, or simply savor a favorite bar.

How to Observe American Chocolate Week

Celebrate by hosting a chocolate tasting and comparing different varieties. Make a chocolate dessert or drink, try a new confection, share a box of chocolates with friends or family, or visit a local chocolate shop. You can also spend part of the week learning how cacao becomes chocolate and exploring the history behind this favorite treat. More chocolate-themed celebration ideas include cooking, tastings, gifts, movies, and visiting a chocolate shop.

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