PERUGIA, Italy – Sweets lovers had a "chocolaty" experience with the celebration of the chocolate festival recently in Perugia, Italy.

Thousands of locals and foreigners flocked to the annual occasion of the Euro Chocolate that was held from October 16 to 25 of this year.

“Gusto ko lang maka-experience na ang saya-saya daw dito kasi balita na ang Euro Chocolate ay napakaganda daw ito at napakaraming chocolate,” Maritez Marquez said.

Filipino chocolate lovers were among those who trooped to Perugia to sample and see chocolate line booths and the trade fair that showcased handmade chocolates.

“First time ko lang ang experience na ito. Sumali po kami doon sa loob ng milka. Ayun, nanalo po kami ng tsokolate ang saya,” Zeny Reyes said.

Another first time visitor said the event served as a venue to have fun and mingle with people from different countries.

“Para makipagsaya sa ibang lahi at makapaglibang habang wala pang trabaho,” said Andrew Mendoza.

Highlights of the 10-day celebration included numerous and generous tasting samples of different flavors and types of chocolates made in Italy and in Europe.

Aside from the chocolate experience, the event also provided bonding time for families through various games.
 
“Naku! Enjoy na enjoy kami at napakaraming tao. Tuwang-tuwa nga ang anak ko,” said Jeanneth Liang Barcelon.

“Masaya dito kasi maraming tao may mga libreng tsokolate,” said Victor Barcelon added.
 
The chocolate festival started in Perugia in 1994. The celebration continues in Turin and Rome every year and is one of the biggest chocolate festivals in Italy and Europe. Perugia is in the Umbrian City of Italy known for its chocolate industry.