Chocolate fest opens May 3 in Long Grove

Prepare to dive into three days of chocolate — the annual Chocolate Fest opens Friday and runs through Sunday in historic Long Grove near routes 53 and 83.

From chocolate-dipped fresh strawberries and chocolate doughnuts to brownies and fudge, the weekend is filled with chocolate treats, live music, great food and distinctive shopping in charming Historic Downtown Long Grove.

The chocolate specials even include beers, wines, martinis, sauces and olive oils. Guests can stroll through town and enjoy live music on four different stages while children enjoy a balloon artist, kiddie rides, pony rides and face painting.

Guests can customize their chocolate experience with a $5 chocolate tasting ticket, allowing the holder to select six different tastings offered by participating merchants throughout town.

“Every May, thousands of festival goers of all ages stroll through the streets of Historic Downtown Long Grove,” said Rachel Perkal, president of the Long Grove Business and Community Partners Organization. “Visitors love the mixture of trendy shops, boutiques, galleries and restaurants in a beautiful old-world setting of historic buildings, cobblestone walks, colorful gardens, and the landmark covered bridge.”

Admission is $5 (under 12 free), but visitors receive a $5 coupon off their next visit to Long Grove as a special thank you.

For details, call the Visitor’s Information Center at (847) 634-0888 or visit www.visitlonggrove.com.