Attendees of this winter’s Chocolate Fest get an extra treat again this year, thanks to Stars Fine Jewelers. Stars co-owners Frieda and John Hanlon are giving away free single, round white saltwater cultured pearls to each of the first 200 guests arriving at the event at Skidompha Library on Sat., Feb. 7 from 7-10 p.m.
John Hanlon said this is the fourth or fifth year they have sponsored this event. This year Stars is co-sponsoring Chocolate Fest with Bath Savings Institution.
The store always tries to do something special to help attract people to the event. At previous Chocolate Fest events Stars raffled off a pair of diamond earrings, and gave away 200 cubic zirconias, according to Hanlon, one of them turning out to be a real diamond.
Hanlon thinks people appreciate an opportunity to get decked out in their very finest in the middle of winter. “Chocolate Fest attracts a lot of people,” Hanlon said. “They put on their glad rags and good jewelry. It’s a fun night out.”
Local restaurants donate chocolate desserts and champagne, which attendees get to savor while taking in the silent auction items and the smooth sounds of live jazz with the Barney Balch Quartet, Hanlon said.
Tickets are $25, and available at local retailers including Stars Fine Jewelers, Bath Savings Institution, the Maine Coast Book Shop, The Damariscotta River Grill, and at Healthy Kids!. Tickets may also be obtained on the night of the event at the door. All proceeds go to benefit Healthy Kids.