About
York Chocolate Festival 2026 is back Wednesday 1st April – 5th April 2026
Location: Parliament Street & venues across the city centre
Price: Free entry (some workshops/tours may require tickets)
Indulge your senses this Easter as the York Chocolate Festival returns to transform the city’s historic heart into a chocolate lover’s paradise. Celebrating York’s world-famous status as the "Chocolate City" this five-day festival is a must-visit for families, foodies, and history buffs alike.
Explore the Chocolate Market Stroll through Parliament Street to discover an artisan market featuring the finest local and regional chocolatiers. From hand-tempered truffles and innovative vegan bars to traditional Easter treats, you’ll find everything from the city's independent producers.
Interactive Workshops & Demonstrations Ever wanted to be a chocolatier? Join us at the Activity Marquee for hands-on sessions including chocolate egg making. Don't miss our live demonstrations where expert chefs—including "Extreme Chocolate Makers" star Ashley McCarthy—sculpt incredible masterpieces entirely out of chocolate right before your eyes.
The Famous Taste Trail For those who want to explore more of the city, the Chocolate Taste Trail offers a self-guided tour of York’s hidden gems. Purchase a trail booklet to unlock exclusive samples and sweet surprises from participating boutiques, delis, and cafes tucked away in York's ancient Shambles and beyond.
A Legacy of Sweet Innovation While other Northern cities built their wealth on wool or steel, York built its empire on cocoa. The festival honours the pioneering confectionery families like Terry’s and Rowntree’s who created global icons like the KitKat and the Chocolate Orange. Whether you’re relaxing at our dedicated Chocolate Cafe-Bar or hunting for clues on the city-wide Easter Egg Hunt, you’ll be part of a tradition that has delighted the world for over 100 years.
Don't Forget York proudly continues it's chocolate traditions with experiences, delicacies and attractions across the city for you to explore throughout the year - check out York's Chocolate Story for a journey into the city's chocolate making heritage, York Cocoa Works for modern day chocolate making experiences or York Castle Museum to explore the archives of York's factories.
York Cocoa Works Opening Hours
Open Daily 9.30am - 5.00pm, 7 days a week.
Visit our website to book
