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International Chocolate Day

Indulge your sweet tooth on International Chocolate Day with delicious treats, recipes, and specials from your favorite chocolate makers!

Sunday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 13

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYChocolate

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to indulge in some delicious chocolate on International Chocolate Day on September 13! It's a day that has been celebrated since 1995, when it was first created as an opportunity to recognize the history and influence of chocolate around the world. Chocolate is one of the most beloved treats all over, with many different flavors and varieties available for everyone's unique tastes. So grab your favorite bar or box of chocolates and get ready to celebrate this special day!

TIMELINE

International Chocolate Day Timeline

First Milk Chocolate

Swiss chocolatier Daniel Peter invents milk chocolate by adding powdered milk to the recipe.

Nestlé & Milk Chocolate

Swiss company Nestlé starts to produce its version of milk chocolate, a product which later becomes popular worldwide.

First Hershey's Bar

Milton S. Hershey sells the first Hershey's milk chocolate bar in America, a brand that remains a century-long favorite.

Mars & Milky Way Bar

Mars Inc. introduces the Milky Way bar, which quickly becomes a sensation and a staple of American chocolate.

Gourmet Chocolate Emergence

High-end, gourmet chocolate begins to rise in popularity, led by companies like Godiva.

First International Chocolate Day

The celebration of International Chocolate Day is invented as a day to appreciate the history and influence of chocolate.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Chocolate Day

Bake your own chocolate goods

Gather up your favorite ingredients and bake your own chocolatey treats. With a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can whip up some amazing brownies, cookies or other desserts.

VISIT

Visit a local chocolate shop

Take a trip to your local chocolatier and sample some of the sweet treats they have to offer. From truffles to toffee, there is something for everyone.

HOST

Host a chocolate tasting

Invite friends over for a night of sampling different types of chocolates and discussing the flavors. Get creative with your pairings and make it an event to remember.

MAKE

Make a hot chocolate bar

Set up a hot chocolate bar with all the toppings - whipped cream, marshmallows, sprinkles, mini marshmallows, and more. Invite people over for a cozy night of sipping cocoa.

GIVE

Give someone a box of chocolates

Surprise someone special with a box of their favorite chocolates. It's sure to put a smile on their face and make them feel extra special.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love International Chocolate Day

Chocolate is good for you

Believe it or not, dark chocolate is actually good for you! Studies have shown that consuming small amounts of cocoa can improve heart health, lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation. So don't feel guilty about indulging in a few pieces - just make sure to keep the portion size in check!

Chocolate is delicious

From creamy milk chocolate to dark, luxurious varieties, there's something for everyone when it comes to chocolate. Whether you like to eat it as a sweet treat or use it in baking, chocolate always adds an extra bit of flavor and richness that can't be beat!

Chocolate is easy to find

Whether you're craving a bar of dark chocolate or a handful of vibrant candy coated pieces - you can find it all at your local supermarket. Plus, many grocery stores now carry specialty and gourmet chocolates for the true connoisseur.