18th Annual Chocolate Tour Was A Resounding Success With Record Breaking Achievements
The 2024 Chocolate Tour in Downtown Excelsior Springs not only concluded with unprecedented success but also shattered previous records, marking an extraordinary day for chocolate lovers and the local community. This year’s event, held on Saturday, February 4th, sold out within an astonishing 30 hours of tickets going on sale, a clear indication of its soaring popularity and the community’s enthusiasm for this unique experience.
The tour attracted 400 participants, with visitors coming from 80 different zip codes, showcasing its appeal to a wide audience and contributing to its status as a must-attend event for chocolate aficionados from far and wide. The economic impact of the tour for the Downtown Excelsior Springs small businesses was profound, generating an impressive $43,460.40 for the local economy. This significant contribution highlights the tour’s role not only as a celebration of chocolate, but also as a key driver of economic activity and growth for downtown.
The tour offered a delightful journey through 30 stops in downtown small businesses, each providing a unique glimpse into the world of chocolate. Participants indulged in a wide array of chocolate delights, from handcrafted truffles and gourmet bonbons to chocolate-infused culinary creations, while also enjoying the opportunity to meet the talented entrepreneurs and small business owners behind these treats.
“The Chocolate Tour has once again exceeded our expectations, and we are overwhelmed by the popularity, positive response and support from both participants and our downtown small businesses,” said Lyndsey Baxter, Executive Director of the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. “The rapid sell-out and the diverse attendance demonstrate the universal love of chocolate and the appeal of our beautiful downtown as a destination.”
The proceeds from the event serve as a fundraiser for the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc., supporting their mission of revitalizing Downtown Excelsior Springs. This year’s success will further enable DEP to make a meaningful impact in Downtown Excelsior Springs, reinforcing DEP’s commitment to support the district’s small businesses through advocacy and promotion.
With visitors from near and far and a notable economic impact, the 2024 Chocolate Tour has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in promoting Downtown Excelsior Springs as a vibrant and welcoming destination. The anticipation for next year’s event is already building, with promises of new surprises and the continuation of this community tradition.
For more details about the 2024 Chocolate Tour and upcoming events in Downtown Excelsior Springs, please visit VisitExcelsior.com or follow our social media channels at Downtown Excelsior Springs, Missouri and @downtown_esmo.
