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World Chocolate Day, or just Chocolate Day, is an annual celebration of chocolate, occurring globally on 7 July, which some suggest to be the anniversary of the introduction of chocolate to Europe in 1550.
The observance of World Chocolate Day dates back to 2009 and is not to be confused with International Chocolate Day.
Other Chocolate Day celebrations exist, such as National Chocolate Day in the United States on 28 October. The U.S. National Confectioners Association lists 13 September as International Chocolate Day, coinciding with the birth date of Milton S. Hershey (13 September 1857). Ghana, the third largest producer of cocoa, celebrates Chocolate Day on 14 February. In Latvia, World Chocolate Day is celebrated on 11 July.
The U.S. National Confectioners Association lists four primary chocolate holidays on their calendar (Chocolate Day (7 July), two National Chocolate Days (28 October and 28 December), and International Chocolate Day (13 September)).
More information: Brown Living
Hidden in the heart of Barcelona's charming El Born district, el Museu de la Xocolata (Chocolate Museum) is much more than a paradise for chocolate lovers. It offers visitors an engaging journey through the fascinating history of one of the world's most beloved foods, from its sacred origins in the Americas to its place in modern European culture.
Chocolate first arrived in Europe during the 16th century after the Spanish conquest of the Americas. The cacao bean had been highly valued by civilizations such as the Maya and the Aztecs, who considered it both a precious commodity and a ceremonial drink. Through Spain, chocolate gradually spread across the continent, becoming a luxury enjoyed by European royal courts before eventually becoming accessible to everyone.
Barcelona played an important role in this story. As one of the Mediterranean's great trading ports, the city became a gateway for cacao arriving from the New World. Over the centuries, Catalonia developed a rich tradition of chocolate making, with family-owned workshops producing everything from drinking chocolate to beautifully crafted confectionery.
El Museu de la Xocolata celebrates this heritage through a collection that combines history, art, culture, and craftsmanship. Visitors can discover how cacao is cultivated, learn about the chocolate-making process, and explore the evolution of packaging, advertising, and chocolate consumption through the centuries.
One of the museum's most distinctive attractions is its extraordinary collection of chocolate sculptures. Master chocolatiers have recreated famous monuments, fairy-tale characters, historical figures, and scenes from popular culture entirely in chocolate. These detailed creations highlight the remarkable artistic skills required to transform chocolate into genuine works of art.
The museum is also closely connected to Barcelona's culinary identity. It is managed by the Barcelona Confectioners' Guild, whose members have preserved the city's long-standing pastry traditions while continuing to innovate. Throughout the year, workshops and demonstrations allow visitors of all ages to experience the creativity behind chocolate craftsmanship.
A visit to el Museu de la Xocolata is both educational and delicious. Whether you are interested in history, gastronomy, or simply looking for a unique experience, the museum offers an enjoyable glimpse into how a humble cacao bean became one of the world's most treasured delicacies.
In a city celebrated for Antoni Gaudí's architecture, medieval streets, and Mediterranean atmosphere, el Museu de la Xocolata provides a different perspective on Barcelona -one where history, culture, and sweetness come together in every bite.
Chocolate is proof that history can be tasted and Claire Fontaine and The Grandma are ready to do it.
More information: Museu de la Xocolata
Strength is the capacity to break a chocolate bar
into four pieces with your bare hands
-and then eat just one of the pieces.
Judith Viorst
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