OROVILLE — The Wine and Chocolate Walk returns to downtown Oroville on Friday for the first time in three years.
“The last time we did this walk was in February 2020 right before everything closed, so it’s very exciting to bring this event back,” said Gracie Stewart, events coordinator of the Wine and Chocolate Walk.
The event, the second first Friday event of the year hosted by Downtown Oroville, includes 16 stops where attendees can sample delicious chocolates and a variety of wines. Tickets for the event, which runs from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., are $35 in advance and available through the group’s website at www.downtownoroville.com. Tickets can also be purchased on the afternoon of the event at the Downtown Welcome Booth on the corner of Myers Street and Bird Street.
“The last time we ran this event, it was very successful. We sold 141 tickets and people really enjoyed themselves,” said Heather Johnson, former board member. “We’re adding a little twist to it this year to make it even more fun.”
The “twist” this year is that the shops offering vino tastings will serve wines that are available for purchase at downtown restaurants.
“It’s an opportunity to include more downtown businesses, especially our wonderful restaurants, in a First Friday event,” Johnson said.
Kusel’s Big Store serves Josh Cabernet Sauvignon and Ruby’s Boutique Kim Crawford Rosé. Both wines are available from Provisions. Tastings of J. Lohr Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, both available at Nori Asian Kitchen & Sushi, are served at The Galley and Masonic Lodge, respectively. Brushstrokes Gallery will serve samples from Sobon Estate Amador County Barbera and Lunatic Fringe will serve a Nobilo 2021 Sauvignon Blanc. These two wines are available at Villa Vino. Tastings of Cox Vineyards “Boeket” Sauvignon Blanc and “Boeket” Rosé, available at Union Bar and Grill, will be served by Century 21 and Gallery Interiors, respectively.
Chocolate tastings, including samples from Mary’s Edible Creations and Theo Chocolates, will be available at TinyHinies, Erin Lackey Photography, Bird Street Vendors, 2B Renewed, Franklin and Company, Knockout Salon, Off the Hanger, and Unforgettable Bridal, among others.
“Downtown Oroville has been hosting First Fridays for over 10 years. It’s a great way to draw more people downtown to see the shops, restaurants, art and news of the historic area,” Johnson said.
The Wine and Chocolate Walk is one of five ticketed events hosted by the Downtown Business Association throughout the year. The other 10 events in Downtown Oroville, including five of the First Friday events like the Hollywood Walk, Scarecrow Contest and Christmas Preview, are free to the community.
“We want people to have fun while supporting their historic downtown. All proceeds from the sale of event tickets go towards supporting free events sponsored by Downtown Oroville throughout the year, including community Christmas tree lighting and Santa pictures,” said Robin Zanon, vice president.