Submitted by Jody Grimaldi
Festival season begins in Long Grove the only way it knows how: with chocolate. From May 15-17 the village’s iconic Chocolate Fest returns, transforming historic downtown Long Grove into a lively, chocolate-filled celebration that draws visitors from across the region year after year.
Set among colorful historic buildings and anchored by the village’s famous covered bridge, Chocolate Fest offers a weekend that feels both nostalgic and energetic. It’s the kind of place where you can wander with a chocolate treat in hand, discover something new around every corner, and settle in for an afternoon that easily turns into an evening.
Now firmly established as one of the suburbs’ signature spring festivals, Chocolate Fest marks the unofficial start of Long Grove’s event season. It’s a weekend built around indulgence, live music, and community, all set within a charming and walkable downtown.
A weekend built around chocolate
From classic favorites to creative twists, Chocolate Fest is known for its wide range of chocolate-inspired offerings. Visitors can expect everything from chocolate-dipped strawberries and funnel cakes to specialty desserts and inventive treats crafted just for the weekend. Local shops and restaurants join in with their own chocolate-themed menu items, giving guests plenty of reasons to explore the village beyond the main festival areas.
New this year: themed music days
This year introduces a fresh twist with themed music days that shape the energy of each evening:
Friday’s music will have a country theme, with headliner Whiskey Friends, a Morgan Wallen tribute, alongside a full lineup of live performances.
On Saturday it will be a ’90s throwback with tributes to Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, Smashing Pumpkins, and more.
Sunday will feature a laid-back, classic rock finale headlined by Mr. Blotto with a Woodstock-inspired set.
Live music will take place across multiple stages throughout downtown, with additional family-friendly programming at the Fountain Square Stage. The full music schedule can be found at longgrove.org.
More than just a sweet tooth
Chocolate Fest delivers a full weekend experience beyond the desserts. Guests can enjoy a classic carnival with rides, kids activities, interactive experiences, and a variety of food and beverage vendors throughout the village. Downtown Long Grove’s more than 30 independently owned shops will be open all weekend, offering everything from handcrafted goods and home décor to clothing, gifts, and specialty items. Many will feature chocolate-themed merchandise and festival specials.
Restaurants, breweries, and tasting rooms also will be in full swing, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks throughout the weekend, with select chocolate-inspired creations added just for the occasion.
All proceeds from this Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association event are directed toward downtown improvement projects such as permanent street lights, maintenance of Covered Bridge Park, entry signs, banners, and free activities for visitors.
Long Grove Chocolate Fest 2026
When: Noon to 11 p.m. Friday, May 15; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 16; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 17
Where: Downtown Long Grove, 145 Old McHenry Road
Admission: Tickets are $7 and may be purchased online or at the gate. Gates accept cash or card payments. Children age 12 and younger admitted free. Discounted admission prices are available when purchasing three-day passes online only.
Parking: Free public parking available throughout downtown; ride-shares encouraged. A remote parking lot and free shuttle are available Saturday and Sunday; see the website for a map and details.
Details: longgrove.org/festival/chocolatefest
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