Is there a traditional vendor marketplace or walk-around sampling?
No. ChocolateFest 2026 is a seated, curated tasting format. Samples are served to your table during your timed session. Unlike previous years, there is not a full vendor floor. Instead, the experience is smaller and more intimate — you’ll be able to purchase directly from the chocolatiers and candy makers you just sampled in the tasting area.
Will there be samples?
Yes — during your tasting session. Your host will guide you while servers bring each course to your table. While there is no separate walk-around sampling floor, you can still browse and purchase from the same vendors you just experienced in the tasting area immediately following your session.
Can I buy my ticket at the door?
Usually yes, if there is availability. However, sessions often sell out online in advance. We strongly recommend buying early to secure your preferred time and any discounts that may be running. Please note: After Dark requires valid ID and is strictly 21+.
Is there a military discount?
Yes — we offer a 10% military discount at the door.
What can I expect at ChocolateFest this year?
A seated tasting experience featuring timed entry, a hosted presentation, chocolate courses delivered to your table, palate-cleansing breaks, and beverages. After Dark provides a refined, adults-only atmosphere with fewer but larger and more premium samples, each paired with a specially selected alcoholic drink. Following each session, you’ll be able to meet and purchase directly from the makers in the next room.
How do Daytime Tastings work?
Arrive 10–15 minutes before your scheduled session. Once seated, your host will welcome you and servers will present each course one by one. Expect about 45 minutes of guided tasting with notes on every item, plus water and palate cleansers. You’ll also receive voting cards to help crown our Champion of Chocolate. Afterward, you’ll exit into the adjoining room, where you can purchase directly from and chat with the makers you just sampled.
How does the After Dark Tasting work?
After Dark is a 21+ experience with fewer, larger, more premium samples — each paired with a bespoke alcoholic drink designed to complement that course. Arrive about 15 minutes before your session, enjoy the adults-only atmosphere with live entertainment and a cash bar, and then settle in for your guided tasting. A valid government ID is required for entry.
How many courses or samples are included?
It varies by session and partners, but each tasting includes multiple courses from a curated selection of chocolatiers and candy makers — all served to your table.
What happens if I’m late for my tasting time?
If you arrive late, you may still be seated and will receive any missed courses packaged in a to-go box. If you arrive too late to join the session, you will still receive your box of samples (when available) and may shop the vendor area, but you will miss the tasting experience. If you miss your session entirely or arrive beyond the cutoff, you may forfeit both the tasting and the samples. In all cases, there are no refunds for missed or late arrivals.
Do I have to finish everything during the session?
No. To-go boxes and bags are available if you’d like to take remaining items home with you.
Can I purchase chocolate or gifts without attending a tasting?
The only way to purchase from participating vendors onsite is through a tasting pass. After each session, guests are invited into the adjoining space to purchase directly from the makers they sampled. Vendor lists will also be shared on our website closer to the event date.
Can I get a refund?
No. All ticket sales are final and non-refundable, including missed or late arrivals.
Which vendors or partners are featured?
A curated lineup of chocolatiers, candy makers, and beverage partners are showcased within the seated tastings. Lineups may vary by session and are subject to change.
What about allergies or dietary restrictions?
We cannot guarantee that foods are allergy-safe or meet specific dietary needs. Many products may include or be processed near peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, dairy, coconut, and other allergens. If you have allergies or sensitivities, please consult your healthcare professional before purchasing. After Dark includes alcohol, so please plan accordingly — and never drink and drive.
When and where is ChocolateFest 2026?
ChocolateFest takes place at The Standard, 416 W. Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902.
• Daytime Tastings: 5 sessions on Saturday
• After Dark Tastings: Friday and Saturday evenings (21+ only)