From Jan. 26 to 28, the 16th annual Taste of Chocolate Festival captivated thousands of sweet-toothed enthusiasts. Harvard Square was transformed into a chocolate lover’s paradise right in the heart of Cambridge.

This year’s festival had an impressive turnout, with over 4,000 attendees flocking to Harvard Square in the first two days alone. A striking moment was the considerable line to enter the festival, spanning two blocks, beginning at the far exit of the Harvard T stop. Locals at the event told the Beacon that the average wait time to enter the festival was approximately two hours.

One of the festival’s highlights was the vibrant performance by Grooversity, a hand drum group that captivated the audience with their dynamic Brazilian music. Emerson College graduate student Marcus Santos led the ensemble and expressed his enthusiasm at the event. 

“This is an amazing event, especially this year when they shut down the street for us to play music,” Santos said. “Also, it’s the first year with a DJ on the scene.” 

Grooversity member Cheryl Lefman, a member of Emerson’s class of 1997, shared her joy for the continuity and significance of the event. 

“This year’s event is even more important as people need it to gather and interact with each other,” Lefman said.

The Taste of Chocolate Festival offered a platform for local artists like Grooversity and featured a diverse array of chocolate vendors, each showcasing their unique creations.