Chocolate: A Love Story (talk and tasting)

Come along to Humanist Café for a relaxed, engaging, and family-friendly afternoon exploring the story of one of life’s greatest pleasures.

From its origins in the ancient world to the bars we enjoy today, we’ll take you on a journey through the history, making, and meaning of chocolate. Along the way, we’ll discover how it’s produced, what gives it its remarkable flavour, and some of the ethical questions behind it.

And of course, this isn’t just a talk…

You’ll have the chance to taste a range of chocolates—from the familiar to the surprising—as we explore how flavour, texture, and origin shape the experience. You may even discover that chocolate is more complex than you thought.

There’ll be a few light-hearted quiz moments along the way, and plenty of opportunity to relax, chat, and enjoy the experience together. Chocolate samples will be provided—but if you’d like to bring along a favourite to share, we’d be delighted.

Whether you’re a lifelong chocolate lover or simply curious, you’ll be very welcome.
Come along, take part, and share in the simple pleasure of chocolate—in good company. Oh and please let us know you're coming so that we have enough chocolate to go round!

Free coffees and teas in the main hall. Entry is free but if you would like to contribute to our expenses a donation of around £3.00 per person is very welcome by card or cash. Also check out our humanist lending library in the hall.

Images from left to right: Cocoa pods on a cocoa tree Creative Commons image by Luisovalles (Wikipedia); Aztec Man Carrying a Cacao Pod (15th century)
Brooklyn Museum – no copyright (Wikipedia); private photo of a chocolate bar.