No Chocolate For You

One of the most popular local foodie events is the annual Chocolate Fest. Going on 25 years, it's been sweetly raising funds for the National Kidney Foundation. But January's celebration has been postponed, and it sounds like hard economic times were a factor in the decision:

"A number of factors have contributed to this decision; chief among them is the current economic climate... We felt it was better to take some more time to formalize sponsorships and organize a new venue, than to produce anything other than a first-rate event...", said Helen Harb, Division President of the National Kidney Foundation Serving East Tennessee. 

It should be coming back in the fall of 2010. Press release on the jump.

25th Annual Chocolate Fest has been Postponed for Fall of 2010

The best chocolate event in Tennessee has been postponed.  "We have made the very difficult decision to postpone the 25th Annual Chocolate Fest which was originally scheduled for January 16, 2010. A number of factors have contributed to this decision; chief among them is the current economic climate.  While deciding to postpone Chocolate Fest was very difficult, it was the most prudent decision. We felt it was better to take some more time to formalize sponsorships and organize a new venue, than to produce anything other than a first-rate event. I'm sure ticket buyers, sponsors and chocolatiers will agree", said Helen Harb, Division President of the National Kidney Foundation Serving East Tennessee.
 
The good news is that the postponement is temporary and plans are already underway to hold Chocolate Fest in the fall of 2010 which will take place at the Knoxville Expo Center, a new venue for the event!  This fun, family-friendly event has raised essential funds for the National Kidney Foundation for 25 years.  2010 marks the 25th anniversary of Chocolate Fest and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Ticket holders will indulge in chocolate delicacies and enjoy chocolate inspired family activities.

"Many restaurants and sponsors said they like the idea of moving Chocolate Fest to the fall season. Many have already signed on to participate in next year's event. Once a date has been confirmed, we'll get the word out to our community and start selling tickets. Through the years, Chocolate Fest has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to fund needed programs for people in our community who are battling kidney disease. ", Harb said.

Chocolate Fest is a chocolate lovers dream consisting of a chocolate sampling extravaganza. Ticket holders will be able to sample chocolate treats from local chocolate artisans including restaurants, bakeries, chocolatiers, patisseries, and catering companies and other companies.  The chocolatiers will compete against each other in several categories. The event features activities everyone can enjoy.
Restaurants and businesses interested in participating in Chocolate Fest are encouraged to call the National Kidney Foundation Serving East Tennessee at (865) 688-5481.