The much loved Newburport Chocolate Tour will be held on Saturday, May 16. This event will run from 1-5pm and take place downtown and at the Tannery Marketplace.
For twelve years participants have enjoyed samples of the finest chocolate drinks, cakes and candies all in the name of supporting local non-profits.
According to organizers, “…during its first nine years the event was sponsored by the American Red Cross who formerly had a local office on State Street. Over the past few years however the Red Cross has become less localized and is now currently based out of Cambridge.” Without a Red Cross local presence, a long time volunteer suggested that her group at the Central Congregational Church take on the Tour as a fund raiser for the Red Cross as well as other worthy community programs. The Red Cross was delighted and gave the group their blessing.
Currently the organizing committee chooses the beneficiaries and this year they chose to stick with local groups that will best benefit from the significant donation.
The tour is sponsored by the Central Congregational Church of Newburyport with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the Red Cross, Greater Newbury Elder Pet Fund, Councils on Aging Prescription Refill Programs, the Kid’s Club and the MSPCA at Nevins Farm. Ticket-holders are given a complimentary bag at check-in outside the Unitarian Church, which can be used to carry the chocolates one might prefer to save for later.
Only 400 tickets are sold and this is a reasonable size for the Town and also the cafes and store participants who provide special chocolate treats for ticket holders.
Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased in advance at Newburyport Olive Oil Company, the Brass Lyon or by sending a check payable to: Central Congregational Church. Please mail the check to: The Chocolate Tour, 39 Marlboro St. Newburyport, MA 01950.
You may also purchase tickets on the day of the tour in front of the Unitarian Church at 26 Pleasant St., however advance purchase is encouraged as tickets will be limited.
Volunteers are still needed for each of the two hour shifts. Currently there are twenty-eight participating cafes and shops which means 100+ volunteers are needed.
For further information on volunteering contact Diane at 978-465-1285. You can also follow the event’s updates on Facebook.