About Rivers of Chocolate
The 12th annual Rivers of Chocolate Festival, benefiting EHC LifeBuilders, will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2008, from 1 to 5 pm at the Adobe Lodge and Mission Gardens at Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, California. Click here for directions to the SCU Mission Gardens. Advance registrations closes 4/25. Tickets may also be purchased at the door at the $100 Chocolate Lovers Price.
The revenue from this event will benefit our youth programs. EHC LifeBuilders has been helping children, teens, families and homeless persons for nearly 30 years.
In 12 years, Rivers of Chocolate has established itself as the premier chocolate tasting event in Northern California. Each year finds additional chocolatiers and restaurateurs creating confections to fit the theme.
The guests, many of whom come year after year, delight in the rich chocolate creations and savory delights prepared and donated by leading chocolatiers and chefs. Guests are treated to music, cooking demonstrations, and a live auction called by Pete DeVries, the Cowboy Auctioneer, who is always a crowd favorite.
Below are some facts about last year's Rivers of Chocolate Festival to help you see what a terrific opportunity it is to support this worthwhile cause.
- 2007 festival had well over 700 attendees
- 2007 festival raised nearly $100,000 for our youth programs
- 2007 festival had over 55 participating chocolatiers, confectioners, restaurateurs, and vintners
- 2007 festival had over 100 volunteers from local valley companies and private individuals who gave their time and expertise to produce an unforgettable event
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rivers of Chocolate Festival?
The 12th Annual Rivers of Chocolate Festival is a fundraising event for the Youth Division of EHC LifeBuilders. It's an opportunity for some of the best Bay Area restaurateurs, chocolatiers, wineries and other participants to show off their talent! The festival enables you to taste some amazing chocolate, pastries, hors d'oeuvres, ice cream, gelato, wine, beer, and spirits - all in support of at-risk and/or homeless youth. There will also be live music, and a live and silent auction.
When and where is Rivers of Chocolate?
Rivers of Chocolate will be at a different venue this year... the beautiful Adobe Lodge and Mission Gardens at Santa Clara University! Follow the directions to Santa Clara University. The Adobe Lodge is located directly behind and to the left of the Mission Santa Clara de Asis. The date to put in your calendar is Sunday, April 27th, 2008, and the event will be from 1:00pm to 5:00pm.
Who are the participating chocolatiers, restaurants, and wineries at Rivers of Chocolate?
Please see the Participants page for a full list.
What can I expect when I arrive? What happens at the festival?
When you arrive, you'll immediately be given a program that will guide you through the event. You'll also receive a wine glass. You may want to see what the participants are offering, then begin sampling the culinary delights and wines. Be sure to peruse the many silent auction items while you listen to live music. And then there's the live auction called by Pete DeVries, the Cowboy Auctioneer. Don't miss it!
What can I expect when I arrive? What happens at the festival?
When you arrive, you'll immediately be given a program that will guide you through the event. You'll also receive a wine glass. You'll likely want to see what the participants are offering, and will sample the culinary delights and wines as you go. Be sure to peruse the many silent auction items while you listen to live music. And then there's the live auction called by Pete DeVries, the Cowboy Auctioneer. Don't miss it!
How can I pay for auction items?
You can pay by credit card, check or with cash. Most items will be available for you to take when you leave.
Can I bring my children to Rivers of Chocolate?
This event is more appropriate for adults. As this is a fundraising event, $100 will be charged for each person entering. An infant can accompany a parent.
Can I bring my dog, cat, or chinchilla to Rivers of Chocolate?
No animals are allowed.
How can I get tickets?
Advance registrations closes 4/25. General admission tickets may be purchased at the door.
How much are they?
General admission tickets may be purchased at the door at the special "Chocolate Lover's Discount" of $100.
Is the price of admission tax deductible?
Our estimated received value (in the form of food and entertainment) is $50. Any additional payment is tax deductible (i.e., $50 if you pay $100 for your ticket, $63 if you pay $125).
If you have any other questions, please email us!












