Chocolate lovers unite in Fairfax and Washington

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Even if life is like a box of chocolates, you do know what you're going to get at Fairfax's Chocolate Lovers Festival this weekend.

Chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate.

The annual event, held the first weekend of February, began in 1992 to unite area chocolate lovers. A portion of the event proceeds goes to benefit a different organization each year; this year, the city's Independence Day Celebration Committee receives the grant.

Among the weekend's events:

• Taste of Chocolate: Sample cakes, fudge, brownies, ice cream and other chocolate-y creations from area confectioners.
• Chocolate Challenge: Help judge chocolate cakes and sculptures before they are sold off in a silent auction.
• A cake decorating demonstration from Norman R. Davis and Zane Beg of Alexandria's The Sweet Life.

After indulging at the festival, give yourself a few days' rest before enjoying The Ritz-Carlton's special Chocolate Decadence buffet. Special chocolate desserts and Champagne cocktails are available in the Lobby Cafe and Bar, providing a delicious lead-up to Valentine's Day.

Splurging on the Chocolate Decadence Package also includes deluxe accommodations, a "chocolate inspired butler drawn bath" and a keepsake copy of "For the Love of Chocolate."

Getting to Fairfax:

From the Capital Beltway, take exit 52A (Little River Turnpike West) and drive six miles to Old Town Fairfax. Festival activities are scattered around Old Town; the event website has a map detailing each location.

Related stories:

DC's Valentine's Day events guide
Special ways to celebrate Valentine's Day
DC's top romantic spots

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