I don’t know about you but when it comes to Chocolate, I’m a lot like the Cookie Monster more Chocolate please. I couldn’t let a #Holiday I found happening on September 13th which is International Chocolate Day #ChocolateDay.
I thought I would share a fun fact with you. Chocolate has a rich history that dates back over 4,000 years, originating in Mesoamerica. The Olmecs were among the first to cultivate Cocoa Beans, which were later used by the Mayans and Aztecs in various rituals and as a beverage. Did you know the word “chocolate” comes from the Nahuatl word “chocolatl,” meaning “hot water”
I am excited to let you know International Chocolate Day is celebrated every year on September 13th., International Chocolate Day is more than just an excuse to indulge in your favorite sweet treat — it’s a tribute to chocolate’s rich history and cultural significance.
Why September 13?
This date coincides with the birthday of Milton S. Hershey, the founder of The Hershey Chocolate Company, born in 1857. His legacy helped make chocolate widely accessible and beloved across the globe.
How People Celebrate
- Indulge in chocolate: From dark to milk, truffles to brownies, International Chocolate Day is the day to savor it all.
- Host a chocolate-themed party: Think chocolate fountains, tasting stations, and cocoa-infused dishes.
- Explore chocolate’s history: Learn about its origins with the Olmecs, Mayans, and Aztecs, who revered cacao as sacred.
- Try something new: Vegan chocolate, spicy chocolate, or even savory dishes with cocoa.
Fun Fact
Did you know the scientific name for the cacao tree is Theobroma cacao, which means “food of the gods”. Fitting, right?
If you’re posting about International Chocolate Day please use the hashtag #ChocolateDay as your golden ticket to join the global celebration. If you want ideas for chocolate recipes or party themes? I’ve got plenty! Just leave me a comment with what your looking for and I will get to work.
In the meantime, here is a Lesson Plan for International Chocolate Day that can be used with #Homeschoolers
Lesson Plans for Learning on International Chocolate Day – which falls on September 13th which I’ve turned #ChocolateDay into a deliciously educational experience! Here’s a fun, cross-curricular lesson plan perfect for primary or elementary classrooms:
Learning Objectives
- Explore the history and origins of chocolate
- Engage in sensory and descriptive writing
- Apply math skills using chocolate-themed activities
- Foster creativity through art and storytelling
1. The Journey of Chocolate
Subject: Social Studies & Science
- Teach students about cacao plants and their rainforest origins
- Discuss how ancient civilizations like the Aztecs brewed chocolate drinks
- Show a short video or read a book about how chocolate is made—from bean to bar
2. Chocolate Storytime
Subject: English Language Arts
- Read Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
- Have students write their own chocolate-themed story or poem
- Use descriptive language to explore taste, texture, and smell
Math with Chocolate
Subject: Math
- Use M&M’s or chocolate bars to teach fractions, sorting, or graphing
- Create word problems involving chocolate purchases or recipes
- Optional: Use Charlie’s Chocolate Bar recipe card for procedural writing and measurement practice
4. Chocolate-Inspired Art
Subject: Art
- Design custom chocolate bar wrappers
- Sculpt chocolate treats using clay or playdough
- Create a “Chocolate Museum” display with student creations
5. Sweet Breaks
Subject: Music & Movement
- Play “Choco Choco Choco” by Gummibär for a dance break
- Let students invent a chocolate-themed chant or jingle
Wrap-Up Activity
- Host a mini “Chocolate Fair” where students present their stories, art, and math projects
- Optional: End with a small chocolate treat or a taste-test pitch session
Now, I have a question for you. Would you like a version tailored for older students or a printable classroom guide? I can whip that up faster than you can say “cocoa bean.” Just leave me a comment below and let me know what you’re looking for.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
