On September 13, the world celebrates International Chocolate Day, a date dedicated to honoring one of the most irresistible and popular products on the planet. This delicacy, derived from cacao, has been a fundamental part of the culinary and cultural history of many civilizations, and its importance continues to this day. In Puerto Vallarta, a vibrant destination full of life and flavors, this day becomes the perfect opportunity to enjoy and explore the many facets of chocolate, from its ancestral origins to its modern interpretations.
Chocolate has its roots in Mexico, where pre-Hispanic civilizations such as the Mayans and Aztecs considered it a divine gift. Cacao was so valuable that it was even used as currency. The ancients prepared a drink called xocoatl, made from ground cacao beans and water, often mixed with spices.
This bitter drink was a luxury reserved for nobility and warriors. Over time, Europeans adapted cacao and transformed it into the sweet chocolate we know today, but its origins remain deeply connected to Mexican history and culture. Puerto Vallarta, with its rich culinary offerings, is the ideal setting to commemorate International Chocolate Day.
This vibrant tourist destination not only offers stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, but also a diverse and high-quality gastronomy. Local restaurants and chocolatiers have adopted chocolate as an essential ingredient, integrating it into their dishes and desserts in creative and delicious ways. A great way to celebrate International Chocolate Day is by visiting the artisanal chocolatiers found in Puerto Vallarta.
Places like Cacao Magico and Xocodiva Artisan Chocolates offer products made with high-quality cacao, many of which come from various regions of Mexico. In these shops, visitors can taste everything from bonbons filled with exotic flavors to dark chocolate bars with cacao percentages above 70%. Additionally, it is possible to purchase products that stand out for their artisanal and sustainable processes, supporting local small producers.
Another ideal activity for chocolate lovers in Puerto Vallarta is participating in a chocolate tour. Some local companies offer tours that allow participants to learn about the cacao production process, from cultivation to the making of chocolate. During these tours, visitors can observe how cacao beans are roasted, ground, and turned into chocolate bars.
They also have the opportunity to create their own chocolate creations and enjoy a guided tasting. This experience is not only delicious but also educational and enriching. For those who enjoy cooking, taking part in a chocolate cooking class is an excellent way to celebrate this day.
Many chefs in Puerto Vallarta offer workshops where chocolate is the star ingredient. From learning how to make truffles to preparing a traditional mole poblano, these classes allow participants to explore the versatility of chocolate in the kitchen. Additionally, it’s a great opportunity to acquire new culinary skills and share a fun time with friends or family.
Chocolate also takes center stage in the desserts of many local restaurants in Puerto Vallarta. To celebrate International Chocolate Day, diners can visit some of the city’s best restaurants and indulge in their creations. From a molten chocolate fondant to a dark and white chocolate mousse cake, the options are endless.
Places like La Leche, Café des Artistes, and Hacienda San Ángel stand out for offering desserts that honor this treat. Chocolate is not only a pleasure for the palate but also plays an important role in Mexican culture. In many traditional celebrations, such as Día de los Muertos, hot chocolate, also known as champurrado, is an essential part of the offerings.
This delicious beverage, made with cacao, corn masa, cinnamon, and sugar, has a thick texture and is especially enjoyed during cool evenings. In Puerto Vallarta, some bakeries and local markets offer this type of traditional drinks, perfect for commemorating International Chocolate Day. Chocolate is not only consumed but is also used in spa treatments due to its antioxidant and moisturizing properties.
In Puerto Vallarta, some luxury spas offer cacao-based treatments, such as body wraps and chocolate massages. These treatments are ideal for those seeking a relaxing and revitalizing experience while enjoying the aroma and benefits of chocolate. Celebrating International Chocolate Day at a spa can be a unique and pleasurable way to pay homage to this special ingredient.
In Puerto Vallarta, chocolate is also a reason for festivals and cultural events. During International Chocolate Day, some cultural spaces and hotels organize tastings, exhibitions, and workshops where cacao is the star. These events are an excellent opportunity to learn more about the history of chocolate in Mexico, try different varieties, and enjoy interactive activities.
They also allow locals and tourists to learn about the economic and social importance of cacao in Mexican rural communities. Although chocolate is delicious, it is also important to remember that it should be enjoyed in moderation. Dark chocolate, in particular, is known for its health benefits, as it contains antioxidants that can improve circulation and reduce the risk of heart disease.
In Puerto Vallarta, many natural and organic product stores offer chocolates made with pure cacao and natural sweeteners, ideal for those looking for healthier options without sacrificing flavor. For those who prefer a more intimate celebration, celebrating International Chocolate Day at home is also an excellent option. Hosting a chocolate-themed dessert night or a tasting of different types of chocolate with friends and family can be a fun way to enjoy this delicious ingredient.
It is also possible to experiment with homemade recipes such as brownies, cookies, or truffles, using locally sourced cacao. Cacao and chocolate are not only delicious but also represent an important source of income for many producers in Mexico. By purchasing artisanal chocolates and participating in cacao-related activities in Puerto Vallarta, consumers support the small farmers and chocolatiers who depend on this product for their livelihood.
Additionally, the gastronomic tourism around chocolate continues to grow in the region, becoming an important economic driver for the city. International Chocolate Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate one of humanity’s oldest and most cherished pleasures. In Puerto Vallarta, a place where culture and gastronomy intertwine in a unique way, there are many ways to enjoy and pay tribute to this delicacy.
Whether visiting an artisanal chocolatier, participating in a tour, or indulging in a spa treatment, chocolate in all its forms invites us to delight and remember its rich history. Happy International Chocolate Day!.
