HONOLULU (KHON2) — Chocolate is one of the things that tends to make better for many people.
Chocolate contains several chemicals that are known to affect mood, often leading to feelings of happiness and pleasure.
Phenylethylamine (PEA) is often referred to as the “love drug”. It’s a natural compound found in chocolate that can stimulate the brain to release endorphins, giving you a feeling of pleasure and well-being.
Theobromine is a chemical is similar to caffeine and can provide a gentle stimulant effect, improving mood and increasing alertness.
Anandamide is sometimes called the “bliss molecule.”. It is a neurotransmitter that is naturally produced in the brain. Chocolate contains small amounts of anandamide, which can enhance a sense of happiness by temporarily binding to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can improve mood and promote feelings of contentment. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains tryptophan, which the body uses to help produce serotonin.
The combination of these chemicals, along with the sensory pleasure of eating chocolate, contributes to the “feel good” and makes people really want to attend the Big Island Chocolate Festival.
Farsheed Bonakdar is the President of the Kona Cacao Association, and he shared all the details that you’ll need to know to navigate the festival and all the things you’ll encounter.
“The fun kicks off with a guided plantation tour and chocolate tasting Thursday, April 25 at the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory in Keauhou-Kona and continues April 26 to 27 with agriculture and culinary seminars, a statewide college culinary competition and a festive gala at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott & Spa,” said Bonakdar.
The “Mystical Chocolate Masquerade” gala is set to take place on April 27. It is a highlight of the festival as those who attend have the opportunity to wear fancy costumes and cloak their identities with masks.
“On Saturday, we will have three culinary demonstrations by professional chefs, including how to make a beautiful chocolate sculpture that will be displayed during the Saturday night gala,” said Bonakdar. “This year’s gala theme is ‘Mystical Chocolate Masquerade’, and we’re encouraging attendees to wear decorative masks.”
The festival will offer eighteen savory and sweet culinary selections that will be professionally judged along with a People’s Choice competition.
There will also be a towering chocolate fountain, unlimited wine and beer, face painting, photo booth, performances by fire dancers and Kona Dance and Performing Arts, live jazz, dancing, a decorative mask contest and a silent auction.”
“It will be a fun weekend,” exclaimed Bonakdar.
There will even be a contest for the Best Booth, decorated according to this year’s exciting theme.
On Friday, attendees will be able participate in three seminars for cacao growers and processors along with a statewide college culinary competition.
The Big Island Chocolate Festival is taking place at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, located along the scenic Kohala Coast of the Island of Hawai’i. You can click here for more information on tickets and festivities.
To date, the association has raised over $140,000. The silent auction opens online at 12 p.m. on April 22 to benefit the Hawaii Institute of Pacific Agriculture, Kona Dance and Performing Arts along with the Hawaii Keiki Museum.
Well, what are you waiting for? Go get your tickets and have lots of fun!