The festival, hosted by Ranger Chocolate Co. from October 2–4, features more than 45 regional makers. While the event focuses on bean-to-bar craftsmanship, the addition of the cookie contest has shifted the atmosphere from a standard trade exhibition to a community-wide celebration. Saturday’s judging panel will include Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, who will evaluate entries across youth, home baker, and professional categories.
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Portland Craft Chocolate Festival Expands with Cookie Showdown
Hundreds of amateur and professional bakers are descending on the Olympic Mills Building this weekend, as the second annual Portland Craft Chocolate Festival kicks off with its inaugural C4 Chocolate Chip Cookie Competition, a centerpiece event that has already surpassed organizer expectations for local engagement.
Beyond the competition, the festival spills into the surrounding neighborhood with collaborative activations from Steven Smith Teamaker and Stumptown Coffee Roasters. On Sunday, founder George Domurot will lead educational bean-to-bar tastings, guiding attendees through the transformation of cacao from raw nibs into finished chocolate. By integrating local institutions like OMSI and the Oregon Zoo into the programming, organizers aim to highlight the city's broader food culture rather than just the confectionery industry.
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