Here’s something sweet to celebrate: the return of the Annapolis Chocolate Binge Festival.
Created by the Inner West Street Association (the same team behind the popular First Sunday Arts Festival), the Chocolate Binge Festival takes over the first block of West Street on December 5, in a family-friendly celebration of all things cocoa. 2021 marks the 7th year of the event.

The festival brings in 20+ specialty vendors from all over the region, including Baltimore’s Charm City Chocolates, Heritage Chocolates from Leonardtown, DC’s The Capital Candy Jar, and local favorites including Blue Crab Cupcakes, Lisa’s Cake Pops and Annapolis Chocolate Bar. “I enjoy the fact that you can get quality specialty chocolates and small-batch chocolates that are GMO-free,” says Erik Evans, executive director. “It is rare to find a place that offers this wide of a selection of specialty chocolate items.”

He’s not kidding. You’ll find chocolates in all styles, including truffles, fudge, brownies, barks, and more, packaged to be gifted or unwrapped and eaten onsite. In addition to the chocolatiers, look for live music, wine tasting, kids’ activities, and artisans selling jewelry, crafts and more. The event runs from noon to 5 pm, but “bring your camera to photograph the holiday light canopy after sunset,” advises Evans.

Tickets are limited, so purchase in advance at annapolischocolatebingefestival.com. The cost is $5 per adult, with children under 12 free is accompanying an adult.