Eurobean – The Sweetest Chocolate Festival for All Chocolate Lovers

As volunteers, we had the pleasure of taking part in the Chocolate Festival at the Industrial Museum from August 1st to 3rd, 2025, and experiencing the fantastic atmosphere up close. A special highlight was the Grand Opening on Friday evening with singer Jesse de Angelo, who brought the festival’s motto “love, peace and chocolate” rhythmically to life on stage.

Photo: Bettina

Around 50 exhibitors from 22 countries presented their culinary delights – in line with the motto of the European Capital of Culture: Discover the Unknown. There were great offerings such as discussions, meet-the-maker sessions with chocolate producers, and of course lots and lots of tastings. The focus was on ecological chocolate production, social conditions in the countries of origin, and appreciation of the work of cocoa farmers.

It is well known that chocolate is healthy, makes you happy, and sparks creativity. But for us it was a new experience to talk directly with the makers, to feel their enthusiasm, and to witness the pride they take in their truly outstanding chocolate creations.
We made many new acquaintances, and the shared passion for chocolate immediately connected us, whether the makers came from Africa, America, Asia, or Europe.

Foto: Bodo

It was a joyful festival full of diversity and the rare opportunity to taste and compare chocolates from so many different countries. This was clearly embraced: you could see happy children with chocolate-smeared faces, long lines at the booths, cheerful people outside relaxing with music and a cup of cacao before continuing their exploration. And there was so much to discover! Chocolate in countless flavors with nuts or fruit, chocolate spreads, roasted and chocolate-covered cocoa beans, drinking chocolate, and all kinds of chocolate lollies for kids.

In one tent, visitors could take part in a cacao ceremony led by two kind women from Costa Rica, who in their traditional clothing created a wonderful atmosphere. In general, there was plenty to experience in the outdoor area, whether on the main stage or at the many vendor stands offering chocolate in every imaginable form, making the festival a perfectly rounded experience.

On Sunday, after many hours, we left the Chocolate Festival quite exhausted but happy with all the (chocolate) impressions.

What stayed with us: amazing exhibitors, delicious chocolate, laughing children, good vibes, captivating music, dedicated volunteers from the Capital of Culture and the organizers, and the hope for fair trade and a reunion in 2026.

Source: https://chemnitz2025.de/aktuelles/detail/freiwilligenberich-eurobean-chocolate-festival/