Winter is about to get sweeter with the return of the Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival, celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2025! Running from Saturday, January 18 to Friday, February 14, this festival invites everyone to explore delicious and creative hot chocolate creations from some of the city’s most talented cafes and chocolatiers.
One of this year’s highlights is Honolulu Coffee, a local favorite known for its adventurous flavors. They’re back with two vegan-friendly masterpieces available at all three of their Vancouver locations. Get ready to treat your taste buds to something truly special!
Honolulu Coffee’s Festival Creations
Kim’s Berry ($12) This isn’t your average hot chocolate! Kim’s Berry combines 70% dark chocolate and creamy oat milk with the sweetness of strawberry and a surprising hint of fermented Korean gochujang for a little kick. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and spicy, and it comes with a vegan strawberry cookie for an extra treat. (Vegan and dairy-free)
Flora’s Glow ($12) If you’re dreaming of tropical vibes, Flora’s Glow has you covered. This drink blends 70% dark chocolate with creamy oat milk, tropical guava, and a splash of zesty orange. It’s bright, and bold, and has a vegan orange almond cookie to complete the experience. (Vegan and dairy-free)
You can try these exclusive hot chocolates at Honolulu Coffee’s three locations:
- Kerrisdale – 2098 West 41st Avenue (8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday)
- Downtown – 888 Nelson Street (7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday)
- False Creek – 97 West 2nd Avenue (7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily)
Thierry Chocolatier Joins the Festive Fun
Another must-visit for the festival is Thierry Chocolatier, offering two limited-time creations that are as beautiful as they are delicious:
Floating Island (Available January 18-31) This dreamy drink combines 45% milk chocolate and 63% dark chocolate, topped with caramel-coated Swiss meringue and served with a Prunes Galette. It’s the perfect cozy companion for a chilly January day.
Samana Special (Available February 1-13) This one’s a showstopper! Samana 70% dark chocolate from the Dominican Republic is paired with a milk ice cream bâtonnet dipped in chocolate and nestled in a crisp, golden brandy snap. It’s a true celebration of chocolate in all its glory.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Festival
The Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival is more than just sipping hot drinks; it’s about discovering the creativity and passion behind every cup. Whether you’re a fan of bold, unexpected flavors or classic, comforting cocoa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Grab a friend, mark your calendar, and get ready to warm up with some of the most exciting hot chocolate creations in the city.
Mary in Vancity 
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