An array of homemade chocolate treats drew steady crowds at Community Lutheran Church’s annual Anytime Chocolate Festival on Saturday. Allen Scott
BULLHEAD CITY – Chocolate has worn many identities over the centuries — sacred drink, royal indulgence, and now, in Bullhead City, the centerpiece of a lively community celebration. This year’s Chocolate Festival at Community Lutheran Church once again drew a full house, bringing the long journey of chocolate full circle, from its origins as a bitter ceremonial beverage to one of the world’s most beloved treats.
The transformation of chocolate into something sweet is credited to the Spanish, who in the early 1500s mixed sugar with the extract of the cacao plant — brought from what is now Mexico — turning a drink consumed for more than 4,500 years into something people could finally eat.
The annual festival serves as a fundraiser for the church, and according to Pastor Tim Eighmy, it wasn’t the first idea tried — just the one that stuck.
“We had a member who was looking for creative ideas to bring people together for fellowship,” Eighmy said. “But this is the one that really stuck. People keep coming back for the chocolate. And it’s really fun.”
The turnout suggested he was right. Volunteers contributed a wide range of homemade chocolates, while others supplied toppings for what has become an unexpected festival favorite: the baked potato bar.
Asked how potatoes found their way into a chocolate festival, Eighmy didn’t hesitate. “They’re both fattening, therefore, they’re good,” he said with a laugh.
Alongside the loaded potatoes and chocolate creations, attendees browsed a raffle featuring a dozen themed gift baskets. Live music filled the room courtesy of parishioners Mary and Rick Sletten, who performed familiar hits from the 1940s through the 1970s.
The event is organized by the church’s Women’s Auxiliary, which directs proceeds to several causes. Part of the funds support ongoing church repairs, but the group also donates to local organizations.
“We donate part of it to Women Supporting Women, a shelter here in Bullhead City for women in abusive relationships,” said Auxiliary president Bea Padilla. “At times we’ve also helped working women who need money for daycare.”
Pastor Eighmy added one more historical note before the day wrapped up. “If the Israelites had chocolate in the wilderness,” he joked, “they would not have complained so much.”
Allen Scott
