International Chocolate Day - Ever wondered how chocolate was invented? Well, we’ve got some sweet answers for you!

International Chocolate Day 2024 – September 13, 2024

International Chocolate Day is on September 13. Celebrate with us as we give you some cool facts and fun ideas to celebrate this well-loved treat. After making its debut about 4,000 years ago, chocolate can now be found everywhere. Whether you’re a fan of dark chocolate, white chocolate, or hot chocolate, there’s no denying the decadence of this rich delicacy!

History of International Chocolate Day

The history of chocolate can be traced back to 450 B.C., originating from Mesoamerica, present-day Mexico. The word “chocolate” is derived from the Nahuatl word, “chocolatl,” meaning “hot water” and the Aztec word, “xocoatl,” meaning “bitter water.”About 4,000 years ago, the Olmecs began refining cocoa beans into chocolate, which they used as medicine and as part of customary rituals. Centuries later, chocolate was assimilated into the Mayan culture as a beverage and for concluding important transactions.Cocoa beans were once perceived as being so valuable that they were used as a currency by the Aztecs, who believed that the beans were a gift from the gods. Its potency was so revered that natives drank it in preparation for war.According to legend, chocolate found its way to Spain in the 16th century through Hernan Cortes, a Spanish explorer who discovered cocoa during his journey to the Americas. From then on, chocolate soon spread to other parts of Europe.The time-consuming process required to produce chocolate made it an expensive treat, which was restricted to the upper class. In 1828, however, the chocolate press was invented by a Dutch chemist called van Houten, eliminating the problem. The machine was able to squeeze roasted cocoa beans in order to obtain the fine cocoa powder used to make chocolate. This not only made chocolate more accessible to the common man, but also mass production possible.In the 20th century, chocolate is still being enjoyed all over the world, in a wide variety of exciting flavors and formulas. Cocoa is now grown and exported from over fifty countries, at over 4.7 million tons a year.

International Chocolate Day timeline

600 A.D
Enter the Cocoa Plantations

The Mayans cultivate the earliest-known cocoa plantations.

1641
Chocolate in America

Chocolate arrives in Florida, brought on a ship from Spain.

1847
The First Bite

Joseph Fry creates the first chocolate bar.

1973
International Cocoa Organization

The International Cocoa Organization is established

International Chocolate Day FAQs

Is there vegan chocolate?

The answer is yes! Chocolate is made from cocoa beans, which are obtained from the cocoa tree. Make sure to check the ingredients before buying.

Should chocolate be refrigerated?

According to Cadbury, chocolate should not be refrigerated. It should be stored in a cool, dry place.

How do you make hot chocolate?

You can make hot chocolate in either of two ways. The first way is to dissolve cocoa powder in hot water or milk. The second way is to melt pieces of chocolate in a pan of warm milk.

International Chocolate Day Activities

  1. Visit a chocolate house

    Find a chocolate house or chocolatier near you and treat yourself to something fancy. Double the fun and take a friend along.

  2. Try a new brand of chocolate

    Mix things up a little and buy a brand of chocolate you’ve never tried before. You might be pleasantly surprised!

  3. Do something sweet

    Don’t wait until it’s Valentine's Day to show some love. Send your friend or loved one a box of chocolates and spread the fun.

5 Healthy Facts About Chocolate

  1. Heart-healthy

    When taken in moderation, dark chocolate is good for your health and can even lower the risk of heart disease.

  2. Chocolate can help you study

    Flavonoids in chocolate can help to improve memory and focus.

  3. Chocolate contains caffeine

    Though chocolate contains caffeine, it is more potent in dark chocolate than in white chocolate.

  4. Say goodbye to tooth decay

    Dark chocolate contains polyphenols that help fight cavities and tooth decay, as well as prevent mouth odor.

  5. Blood flow

    Research has shown that chocolate can improve a person’s blood flow.

Why We Love International Chocolate Day

  1. The varieties are endless!

    Chocolate is a versatile delicacy that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. You can relax while sipping some hot chocolate, snack on a chocolate bar, or lap up some chocolate ice cream.

  2. It’s an international treat

    Chocolate has become cross-cultural. Whether you live in Timbuktu or Antarctica, you can eat chocolate wherever you are.

  3. It makes us happy

    Chocolate doesn’t just taste good. It also releases chemicals such as dopamine and opioids which positively affect our moods.

International Chocolate Day dates

Year Date Day
2023 September 13 Wednesday
2024 September 13 Friday
2025 September 13 Saturday
2026 September 13 Sunday
2027 September 13 Monday