The 2024 Chocolate & Sweets Festival, held on November 2nd at West Ridge Mall, was an unmissable delight for chocolate lovers and dessert enthusiasts. With VIP entry beginning at 9 a.m. and general admission opening at 10 a.m., the festival drew in crowds eager to experience unique confections and learn the art behind their favorite treats.
West Ridge Mall was transformed for the day into a haven of sweets, greeting guests with the rich aroma of cocoa, caramel, and coffee. The event showcased an impressive array of vendors offering everything from decadent truffles and candy-coated apples to artisanal marshmallows and fusion treats like lavender-infused fudge. Taste tests and sample plates at each booth allowed visitors to savor bold, creative flavor combinations such as basil-chocolate truffles and chai-spiced macarons.
Hazel Hill Chocolates Dazzles with Bean-to-Bar Demonstration
A major highlight was the educational demonstrations by Nick from Topeka’s own Hazel Hill Chocolates, who captivated the audience with his step-by-step walkthrough of turning raw cocoa beans into finished chocolate bars. Nick demonstrated the complete process, from roasting and cracking to grinding and tempering, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating a smooth, flavorful chocolate bar. Attendees were fascinated by the depth of skill and care that goes into each step.
Jack from Joylight Coffee added to the educational component with a presentation on the journey of the coffee bean from farm to cup. Jack’s session covered the roasting process and how beans are sourced, sorted, and roasted to achieve the perfect flavor. Joylight’s booth offered tastings of freshly brewed blends, and the rich, robust scent of coffee was a delightful addition to the festival’s sweet aromas.
In addition to the culinary experiences, the festival provided a range of activities for children. Kids could enjoy face painting, animal balloon making, and a bounce house, while a designated Lego area by the main stage gave them a creative space to build and play. Families appreciated these kid-friendly features, which made the event enjoyable for attendees of all ages.
One of the festival’s highlights was a baking competition, where Topeka’s own Sara of OhMyGoodies took first place with her Peanut Butter Explosion cake. Known for her decadent creations, Sara impressed judges and attendees alike with her indulgent peanut butter and chocolate creation.
Organizers reported hundreds of attendance for this year’s festival, attributing the success to strong community interest and extensive online buzz. The festival’s mix of indulgent sweets, educational showcases, and family-friendly entertainment created an experience that delighted guests and highlighted Topeka’s growing community of artisanal bakers and chocolatiers.
As the festival wrapped up, it was clear that Topeka’s passion for sweets had only intensified. Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur, a coffee lover, or simply looking for a family-friendly event, there’s something for everyone. Follow us for the latest event news and join us in celebrating the sweet side of Topeka!
