The Chocolate Expo Returns to Edison with Two Days of Sweet Experiences on March 7th and March 8th

The New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center in Edison will once again transform into a chocolate‑lover’s paradise as The Chocolate Expo returns on March 7–8, 2026, running from 10 AM to 6 PM each day, with VIP early admission at 9 AM.  

 (Photos in the article provided by The Chocolate Expo - @Chuck Fishman, photo credits.)

Known as one of the largest and most celebrated chocolate festivals in the country, the event brings together gourmet treats, celebrity guests, family activities, and unique shopping experiences under one roof.

Photo by Chuck Fishman at the Chocolate Expo

This year’s expo features approximately 100 vendors, offering an expansive mix of chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses, wines, and other indulgent creations. Guests will be welcomed by flowing chocolate fountains—white, dark, and milk—before exploring a marketplace filled with:

• Chocolate bonbons, truffles, and bean‑to‑bar specialties
• Fudge, chocolate‑covered fruits, cookies, brownies, and cake pops
• Cheesecakes, pastries, and artisan baked goods
• Honey, snack foods, cheeses, wines, and specialty beverages
• A variety of ethnic and savory foods
• Original photo by Chuck Fishman from The Chocolate Expo

The event blends gourmet tasting with hands‑on experiences, making it a destination for both food lovers and families.

The 2026 expo brings a nostalgic lineup of television and film favorites:

• Alley Mills, 2025 Daytime Emmy Award winner (General Hospital, The Wonder Years)
• Anson Williams and Don Most, beloved stars from Happy Days

In celebration of the 55th anniversary of Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory, several cast members will also appear:

• Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt)
• Paris Themmen (Mike Teevee)
• Rusty Goffe (Oompa Loompa)

All celebrity guests will be available for autographs and selfies (fees set individually) and will participate in live panel discussions with audience Q&A. Full details are available on The Chocolate Expo website.

(Note: Olivia d’Abo, originally scheduled to attend, is unable to participate due to filming commitments.)

The expo offers a full slate of family‑friendly entertainment, including:

• Face painting and balloon twisting
• A children’s scavenger hunt
• Live demonstrations and chocolate‑themed presentations

A standout attraction will be a large‑scale balloon sculpture installation by artist Robbie Furman, featuring scenes and characters from Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory and The Wonder Years—a colorful backdrop perfect for photos.

Ticket Options to the public:

VIP Early Admission (9 AM entry):

• $30 adults
• $15 children (ages 5–12)
  Available online only.

General Admission (Timed Entry):

• $20 adults / $15 children online
• $30 adults / $15 children at the door

Late Day Special (After 4 PM):

• $10 online for ages 5+
• $15 at the door

Children under age 5 are free. Timed‑entry tickets guarantee priority entry during the selected window, and guests may stay as long as they like.

Advance purchase is strongly recommended at TheChocolateExpo.com, where visitors can also find full event details.

About The Chocolate Expo

The Chocolate Expo is produced by Baum Image Group, known for major cultural events including the Official Woodstock 35th Anniversary Celebration in 2004.

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