Image showing the official logo for the Great Canadian Chocolate Fectival in front of impressive red velvet theatre curtians with the event date Feb 28, 2026 and location Oakville Convention Centre.

Media Highlights: Oakville Spaces Previews The Great Canadian Chocolate Affair

Byrosalind

The buzz for our 2026 season is already beginning! We are thrilled to see our upcoming event, The Great Canadian Chocolate Affair, featured in the local food and drink spotlight at Oakville Spaces.

Official illustrated logo for A Chocolate Affair event.

As we prepare to take over the Oakville Conference Centre on February 28th, the community is getting a first look at what makes this event a must-attend for artisanal food lovers. Beyond the market floor, the “Affair” is designed as a deep dive into the artistry, health, and craftsmanship of world-class chocolate.

The Masterclass Series: Learn from the Experts

As highlighted in the media preview, this year features an incredible lineup of Tutored Tastings. These intimate, guided sessions allow guests to go “beyond the bar” with Canada’s leading chocolate authorities:

Christy Conte, craft chocolate expert and presenter at The Great Canadian Chocolate Affair.
Christy Conte – Level 3 Certified Chocolate Taster

11:00 AM

Craft Chocolate: Taste Like a Pro: Level 3 Certified Taster and International Chocolate Awards judge Christy Conte reveals the secrets of origin and technique.

Read more about Christy’s masterclass here

Mary Luz Mejia, Level III IICCT Certified Chocolate Taster and food journalist.
Mary Luz Mejia – Level III IICCT Certified Taster & Food Journalist

1:00 PM

The Healthy Side of Craft Chocolate: Canada’s first Level III Certified Taster and food journalist Mary Luz Mejia explores the nutritional benefits of high-cacao craft chocolate.

Read more about Mary’s masterclass here

Joanne Mutter, IICCT Level 2 Certified Chocolate Taster at The Chocolate Affair
Joanne Mutter – IICCT Level 2 Certified Chocolate Taster

3:00 PM

A Pairing of Canadian Craft Chocolate and Wine: Level 2 Taster Joanne Mutter leads a sensory journey pairing award-winning bean-to-bar chocolates with expressive Canadian wines.

Read more about Joanne’s masterclass here

A Growing Marketplace of Artisans

Our curated directory of makers continues to grow. We currently have 25 exceptional vendors confirmed—on our way to a target of 80—including award-winning names like Centre & Main Chocolate Co. (known for their “taste of place” innovation) and ChocoSol Traders (leaders in ethical, stone-ground cacao).

From master chocolatiers to boutique wineries and savory stars, the marketplace is a celebration of the makers who bring this event to life.

View the full 2026 Artisan Marketplace directory here.

The Grand Finale: Whisky Night

A close up of a glass of whiskey on the rocks placed on a wooden table surrounded by luxurious chocolate with a purple background.

5:00 – 7:00 PM

As the sun sets, the event shifts gears into The Cask & Cocoa Lounge. This exclusive twilight session pairs Canada’s finest small-batch whiskies with award-winning craft chocolates for a beautifully curated journey of flavor.

We invite you to join us

At Prince Edward County Inc., our mission has always been to create spaces where local artistry and community connection can thrive. Seeing the excitement build for The Great Canadian Chocolate Affair reminds us why we do what we do.

Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or simply looking for a unique Saturday of indulgence, we would be honored to have you join us on February 28th.

We look forward to seeing you in Oakville!

Warmly,
Rosalind

Read the full media feature at Oakville Spaces

Plan your visit at the official event website thechocolateaffair.ca

A professional headshot of Rosalind Fuller, Chief of Staff of Prince Edward County Markets.

Chief of Staff for Prince Edward County Markets Inc., passionate about local artisans and community-driven events.

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