Saturday, May 5, 2012

Chocolate Festival!

Today, we went to Long Grove, Illinois (about 45 mins from Chicago), for their annual "Chocolate Festival".  Yes, you read that right - Chocolate Festival!  But not to worry, I didn't stuff myself silly and piled in all the yummy calories, as this festival is not just about every sweet tooth's weakness.  In fact, more than half of the stalls were exhibiting or selling non-chocolate goodies (as in jewelry, pony rides, and kabobs).  But what I like about this festival is that we were able to explore the Stars Hollow-ish town which hosted the event, which by itself is already interesting and perfect for laid-back walking-tour weekends.  Think Gilmore Girls with quaint, country-looking shops and cafes, and live music on every corner.

Lemonades, old-fashioned mailboxes, flavored drinks station, and garden props



Our lunch - Polish Plate (Stuffed Cabbage, Sausage, Sauerkraut, Potato Pancakes, and Pierogi) and Lamb Kabobs


To-die-for frozen cheesecake dipped in chocolate!


Chocolates, Souvenirs, and Potpourri


Sitting on a butterfly chair... me, Donna, and Emmy


Chocolates at the Long Grove Confectionery 



Garden sculptures - they're everywhere!


 Mr. & Mrs. at the fairgrounds...



Chocolate Stuffed French Toast Cooking Demo


Since this was held outdoor... 



I just had to.  Check out the mother duck and her ducklings which she kept safe and warm under her wings (all together now, "awwwwww")!



My hubby's definitely a chocolate lover!


A 50's-themed Americana shop, uhh... with creepy grandma greeting at the door.
Vintage, vintage, vintage!



We didn't bring home any chocolate from this trip, except for the clearance sea-salt caramel and pretzel bark! :-)  Nonetheless, I enjoyed every minute of it.

5 comments:

  1. I enjoyed every minute of it too, just looking at your pictures. Libring tourist. hi hi. I wish I was there with you:)

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  2. Ang ganda! There are lots of gastronomical festivals here too but normally if not of a vegetable, then of a type of seafood haha. There are also Medieval Festivals - very popular and it's also fun.

    Spanish Pinay

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  3. Joy - thanks!
    Lhot - parang gusto ko yang medieval festivals na yan... may medieval food rin? hehehe!

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  4. Ive never been to any festival here. But if there was a chocolate festival, I am so there!
    The place looks amazing and you take really good photos. Thanks for taking us there with you.

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