National Hot Chocolate Day

National Hot Chocolate Day History

National Hot Chocolate Day is an annual celebration that takes place on January 31st in Canada and the United States. This day is dedicated to enjoying a warm and cozy cup of hot chocolate, a delicious treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. The purpose of National Hot Chocolate Day is to celebrate this beloved beverage and encourage people to savour its rich and indulgent flavour.

Hot chocolate, also known as hot cocoa, has been enjoyed for thousands of years. The ancient Mayans and Aztecs were known to mix cocoa powder with water and spices to create a hot, frothy beverage. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers brought cocoa to Europe, where it was mixed with sugar and milk to create the hot chocolate we know and love today. Since then, hot chocolate has become a popular winter drink all around the world.

To celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day, many cafes and restaurants offer specials and discounts on hot chocolate. Some people like to make their own hot chocolate at home, experimenting with different flavours and toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and cinnamon. Others prefer to cosy up with a good book or a movie and enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate as a comforting treat on a cold winter day.

Top 8 Facts for 2026 National Hot Chocolate Day in Canada

• While often used interchangeably, there is a significant culinary distinction where authentic hot chocolate is crafted from melted bar chocolate containing rich cocoa butter, whereas hot cocoa is made from a powder that is naturally lower in fat.
• The Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival is one of the largest events of its kind in the world, featuring hundreds of limited-edition flavors such as the Bunny Butt White Rabbit Hot Chocolate and yuzu-infused creations.
• In Calgary, the YYC Hot Chocolate Fest turns the beverage into a city-wide competition where a portion of every cup sold is donated to support the Calgary Meals on Wheels program.
• Scientific research from the National Institutes of Health suggests that the high concentration of antioxidants in cocoa can actually improve blood flow to the brain and boost cognitive performance.
• A uniquely Canadian way to elevate the drink involves substituting traditional sugar with pure maple syrup, a technique often showcased in the Canadian Milk Calendar to create a more localized flavor profile.
• High-quality domestic brands such as Camino have become focal points for enthusiasts due to their focus on fair-trade sourcing and organic, intensely dark cocoa profiles.
• From the 16th to the 19th centuries, hot chocolate was primarily consumed as a medicinal treatment for various ailments, including stomach disorders and liver disease, before it evolved into a modern comfort treat.
• Specialized treats like the The Decadent hot chocolate mix, inspired by a famous line of Canadian cookies, frequently generate discussion for incorporating distinct notes of coconut and high-quality cocoa.

In the News and Trending in Canada for National Hot Chocolate Day

Top things to do in Canada for National Hot Chocolate Day

• Enjoy some hot chocolate or cocoa and add marshmallows or whipped cream. If you're of age, try making an alcoholic hot chocolate cocktail. Pair it with rum, chocolate liqueur, or baileys.
• Participate in a winter activity or do something outdoors. Warm up afterwards with some delicious hot chocolate.
• Attend Hot Chocolate Festivals: Vancouver hosts an annual hot chocolate festival where local chocolatiers, pastry shops, bakeries, and coffee shops create special hot chocolate recipes.
• Make a Classic Canadian Hot Chocolate: A homemade recipe boasting the sweeter tastes of Canadian chocolate.