The Willy Wonka Chocolate Festival in Key West, presented in memory of Michelle Halpern, celebrated its 20th year of fun and fundraising on April 2 at the Southernmost Mansion.
The all-you-can-eat chocolate extravaganza featured a liquid chocolate fountain and all manner of cakes, cookies, candies, pies and all things chocolate.
All proceeds from the ultra-popular event help the Cancer Foundation of the Florida Keys, which helps local cancer patients pay their bills and buy groceries while undergoing exhausting treatments.
Southernmost Mansion owner Michael Halpern’s sons created the event in honor of their late mother while they were still in middle school. The festival has continued annually every spring and draws local businesses who volunteer their time and donate their products.
The Hard Rock Cafe booth was a crowd favorite with its chocolate fountain, along with the Kilwins booth, where Conch Baseball Coach Ralph Henriquez and former tax collector Dee Dee Henriquez handed out sweet treats.
