The Óbidos Chocolate Festival returns to the medieval town of Óbidos from March 6–22, transforming one of Portugal’s most picturesque destinations into a celebration of chocolate, creativity, and family-friendly fun. This year’s edition, themed “Art,” turns chocolate into a medium for imagination, with renowned chefs, live demonstrations, edible sculptures, and interactive experiences bringing the world of cocoa to life.
Expect a lively mix of gastronomy, spectacle, and hands-on experiences. More than 100 national and international chefs will take part in a packed program of show-cookings, tastings, competitions, and demonstrations, revealing the secrets behind exceptional pastry and chocolate craftsmanship. Over 80 live presentations will take place across the festival’s professional kitchen stage, where visitors can watch master chocolatiers transform cocoa into edible works of art. Media Kit
The headline attraction this year is the debut of the Museum of Chocolate Art, where iconic artworks—from classical masterpieces to contemporary pieces—are reimagined entirely in chocolate. Visitors can wander through the gallery to discover intricate sculptures and artistic installations crafted by teams of expert chefs during special creative residencies.
Chocolate sculptures remain one of the festival’s most captivating spectacles. Across the venue, artisans carve and mold massive chocolate creations in real time, allowing guests to watch the delicate techniques that bring these impressive pieces to life. In total, the event involves around 85 tons of chocolate and roughly 3,000 hours of creative work, highlighting the extraordinary scale behind the festival.
Families will find plenty of interactive fun as well. Workshops invite children and adults to create chocolate art inspired by figures such as Gaudí and Miró, while immersive exhibitions explore the journey of cocoa from tropical plantations to the chocolate bar. Visitors can also sample artisan sweets at the lively Chocolate Market, where chocolatiers showcase inventive flavors and irresistible treats.
Beyond the sweets, the festival blends chocolate with music, dance, literature, and wine tastings—ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Just an hour from Lisbon, the Óbidos International Chocolate Festival offers the perfect excuse for a sweet spring day trip—where art, culture, and chocolate come together in one unforgettable experience.
For more information, visit theÓbidos Chocolate Festival website.
Óbidos Chocolate Festival
Óbidos Castle
Óbidos
Contact:
Phone: +351 262 959 231
Email: festivalchocolate@cm-obidos.pt
Hours: Fridays to Sundays – 10:00 to 21:00
Entrance
Adults (12 years and older) – €10
Children (3-11 years) – €8
Seniors (65 years and older) and Students (12-15 years) – €9
Buy tickets at the event or online here.