The University Record, February 4, 1997
Units sponsor events featuring chocolate in time to beat February blahs
Displays of chocolate confections like these from Mae’s Chocolates will tempt the palates of visitors to either of two events Feb. 8 and Feb. 25. Chocoholics and history buffs alike will find something to love at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens’ chocolate fest Feb. 8 and the Exhibit Museum’s delving into the history and culture of chocolate Feb. 15.
Don’t miss these two chances to get a chocolate fix. Beginning Feb. 8 from 1-3 p.m. at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens you can discover why the Aztecs viewed chocolate as an aphrodisiac and a gift from their gods.
From chocolate-making demonstrations and tastings, to guided tours of the Conservatory which houses cocoa pods and a chocolate tree, to an educational video that highlights chocolate from the plantation to the finished product, chocolate will reign.
Admission is $5 per person with children 5 years and under admitted free. Parking is free. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 998-7061. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens are located at 1800 N. Dixboro Road.
A second opportunity for a chocolate fix is at Exhibit Museum of Natural History 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 15. A day-long program will focus on the botany, cultural anthropology and modern history of chocolate.
Tastings, demonstrations and door prizes are just some of the highlights. Chocolates, including chocolate dinosaurs, will be available for purchase to benefit the Museum. Admission to “The Natural History of Chocolate,” sponsored by First of America Bank, is free. The Exhibit Museum is located at 1109 Geddes Avenue on Central Campus. Call 764-0478 for additional information or 764-0480 for a recorded message.
