International Chocolate Day: origin and significance

Did you know there’s a day dedicated exclusively to this universal delight? At Bahia Principe, we’ve got all the details about International Chocolate Day, a date that celebrates one of the world’s most irresistible culinary pleasures.

Chocolate is not only a delicious food, but also a cultural symbol deeply rooted in many civilizations. From its origins in Mesoamerica to its place in modern gastronomy, this ingredient has crossed borders and continents, enduring through the ages. Its presence in festivities, traditional recipes, and special moments makes it a true emblem of pleasure and sophistication.

At Bahia Principe, we know that chocolate is also part of unique experiences. That’s why, at many of our hotels, you can not only taste it in desserts or cocktails but also enjoy it through spa treatments or family-friendly pastry workshops.

When is International Chocolate Day celebrated?

World Chocolate Day is celebrated every year on September 13. Beyond borders, this celebration has spread around the globe with events, tastings, and activities designed to honor cacao in all its forms.

At our hotels in Riviera Maya, for example, this date becomes a perfect opportunity to connect with the history of cacao, whose presence in the region dates back to pre-Columbian times. Civilizations like the Mayans used it as currency and considered it a sacred food. Today, you can explore that heritage through culinary experiences and cultural activities we offer to our guests.

Why is Chocolate Day celebrated?

International Chocolate Day was established in 1995 in France, a country with a rich chocolate-making tradition, as a tribute to British author Roald Dahl, writer of the iconic novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The story, which blends fantasy with a deep fascination for sweets, became a cultural icon.

Interestingly, the same day also marks the birth of Milton Hershey, founder of the world-renowned Hershey’s Company—one of the pillars of the modern chocolate industry.

Chocolate around the world: a universal ingredient

Chocolate is much more than a sweet treat; it’s a universal ingredient enjoyed worldwide in a variety of forms and preparations. From bars to beverages, desserts to sauces, chocolate plays a key role in the cuisine of many cultures. Its versatility and ability to evoke positive emotions make it a beloved food for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Additionally, the emotional connection many people develop with chocolate also makes it a special ingredient in celebrations like anniversaries, weddings, honeymoons, or romantic getaways. Precisely because of this strong emotional and cultural bond, International Chocolate Day is celebrated worldwide.

Chocolate varieties and their global production

The world of chocolate is vast and diverse, with a wide range of varieties to suit all tastes and preferences. From rich, bitter dark chocolate to smooth milk chocolate, and sweet, delicate white chocolate, there’s an option for every palate. The global chocolate industry is worth billions and involves farmers, manufacturers, and distributors around the world. Countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Ecuador are key producers of cacao, the essential raw ingredient for making chocolate.

Beyond its flavor, cacao is also valued for its antioxidant properties and health benefits when consumed in moderation. In our spas, we even offer cacao-based body treatments, which hydrate and revitalize the skin—connecting wellness and sensory pleasure in a single ritual.

Celebrations in different countries

September 13, Chocolate Day, is celebrated in many different ways across various countries. In some places, festivals and fairs are held where visitors can taste different types of chocolate and learn about its history and production. In others, baking contests and chocolate tastings are organized to choose the best of the year.

And of course, you can enjoy chocolate while relaxing on dreamlike beaches, indulging in local cuisine on your trip to Riviera Maya, where cacao has been part of the ancestral culinary tradition. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to connect with the local culture and gastronomy while enjoying exclusive experiences designed for all tastes. From family workshops to romantic couple activities or private celebrations, everything is designed for you to create unforgettable moments.

International Chocolate Day is a time to celebrate and enjoy one of the most universal and beloved pleasures in the world. Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, there’s a variety for every taste and occasion.