Chocolate festival in Opatija: top delicacies, workshops and exhibitions for chocolate lovers

The Opatija Chocolate Festival is once again bringing a plethora of surprises, a rich program, and exclusive events for all chocolate lovers this year. From November 8 to 10, 2024, the entire town will be filled with the enticing aromas and flavors of exquisite chocolate creations. Renowned local and international chocolatiers will showcase their innovations, while visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy masterful workshops, lectures, and tastings.

This year, the Festival offers a special insight into the psychological aspect of enjoying chocolate. The lecture "Chocolate and the Psychology of Everyday Life," organized by the Association of Psychologists of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, will take place on November 7 at Villa Antonio. Lecturer Senka Tomljanović Manestar, known for her engagements in promoting psychology, will reveal interesting details about the impact of chocolate on emotions and its symbolism in culture. Attendees will have the chance to learn what makes chocolate so special, why many turn to it in stressful moments, and what its health benefits are.

One of the most exciting events will be the Belgian chocolate spectacle, where top artisan chocolatier Alexandre Druart, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium, will create a unique chocolate replica of the Atomium - the iconic Brussels landmark. This magnificent chocolate sculpture will be showcased on November 10 at the Gervais Center, where a charity auction will also take place to raise funds for the local community. Druart, whose works are recognized for their exceptional precision and creativity, will be exhibiting his artwork in Croatia for the first time, further enriching the festival program.

The Gervais Center in Opatija will be the hub of numerous activities during the Festival, including an impressive exhibition dedicated to the symbols of Opatija made in chocolate. Marina Prijatelj, a renowned Croatian chocolatier, will present her delicacy Angiolina – the Opatija chocolate rhapsody, in the shape of a famous “Sachertorte” inspired by the floral parterre in front of Villa Angiolina. Covering more than four square meters, the cake will showcase beautiful elements of the Opatija landscape, while academic sculptor Georgette Yvette Ponte will create a decorated chocolate relief in white and dark chocolate live. This unique tribute to Opatija's cultural heritage will be presented on November 10 and will be available for sale to visitors.

For those eager for practical workshops, RetrOpatija Chocolate Junior and RetrOpatija Chocolate Experience are organized, taking place on November 9 and 10 at the Gervais Center. These workshops are intended for both children and adults who want to learn the skills of making and decorating chocolate bars and pralines. Since the number of places is limited, all interested parties should reserve their participation in advance.

A special part of the Festival will take place in the Juraj Šporer Art Pavilion, which will become the "Vilma Chocolate Factory" from November 8 to 24. Here, visitors will have the chance to learn about the history and philosophy of the Vilma brand, known for producing high-quality chocolate delicacies. With interesting presentations and tastings, visitors will be able to purchase products from this renowned brand and experience authentic chocolate enjoyment.

During the Festival days, Opatija will be a destination that attracts all chocolate lovers, and for those who want to learn more about the program and surprises the festival brings, additional information can be found on the official website of the Opatija Tourist Board and their social media channels. The diverse and rich content of the Chocolate Festival guarantees a unique experience and an opportunity to explore all forms of this delicacy.