The Story of Chocolate

Visitors can enjoy a unique experience that follows the journey from cacao blossom to beverage through engaging interactive presentations. At Level 1 of the Potomac Atrium, the Jose Reyes Family (Mixtec) will share their insights into the process of transforming cacao into chocolate with their "Blossom to Beverage" demonstration. Additionally, guests can learn about "alcahuetes," traditional Zapotec stirring instruments used in Mesoamerican cacao beverages, and have the chance to decorate their own wooden stirrers. Joaquin Newman (Yaqui/Mexica) will also lead a collaborative effort to create a mural inspired by Mayan designs.

Moving to Level 3 at the imagiNATIONS Activity Center, visitors can participate in the Codice Activity where they can explore the rich history of cacao as depicted in pre-Hispanic and colonial Mixtec codices. With guidance from museum staff, attendees can create their own chocolate-inspired codex. Furthermore, at 12 PM and 2 PM, Executive Chef Alexandra Strong will host food and drink demonstrations featuring a chocolate-inspired tasting menu, with limited tastings available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.