The Lewisburg Chocolate Festival is a decadent celebration of confections.
written by ALISHA JARRETT
photo courtesy of SHEENA PENDLEY-HANSON
SEARCHING FOR A WAY TO SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH THIS SPRING? Look no further—the Lewisburg Chocolate Festival is a chocolate lover’s dream.
Since its inception almost 20 years ago, the event has become a staple in the community, attracting visitors from near and far. “This event was created to give back to nonprofit businesses, but also to boost tourism,” says Jake Pendley. He and his wife, Sheena Pendley-Hanson, have coordinated the festival for the past five years. “We always see people come back to visit, so it has definitely succeeded with its intent.”
Attendees can experience an array of candy-themed activities, such as a chocolate mousse eating contest, Candyland-themed photos in the Pendleys’ photography studio, and chocolate tastings with various dietary options, as well as live music from local musicians, street performers—like a giant Willy Wonka teetering around on stilts—and the Chocolate Chase 5K run. “The Chocolate Chase is really popular,” notes Pendley-Hanson. “People love to participate and do their workout early in the morning, then pig out on candy later that day.”
Everything is free except for the chocolate tastings. People are encouraged to purchase more tasting tickets than they think they might need, as they sell out quickly. “We had around 41 tasting locations last year,” boasts Pendley-Hanson. “We also have a smorgasbord of options from chocolatiers around the state, ranging from espresso brownies and homemade candy bars with pecans to chocolate-covered strawberries, s’mores clusters, and shimmering holographic chocolate bars.” Popular samples at individual booths tend to go fast, so it’s smart to make a plan to visit your favorite spots as soon as you arrive.
“Even if you don’t care for chocolate, you’re more than welcome to come join in the fun,” Pendley adds. “It’s all for a sweet cause, and I’m not just talking about candy—it’s really sweet that we’re able to give back to the community.”
The Lewisburg Chocolate Festival is held each year on the second Saturday of April. To make the most of this delicious event, secure your tasting tickets early to ensure you don’t miss out on the festival’s most sought-after treats. 200 Washington Street, Lewisburg, visitlewisburgwv.com/lewisburg-chocolate-festival, @lewisburgchocolatefestival on FB
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S SPRING 2026 ISSUE
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