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Orange Today
By the People, for the People
OC Libraries Offer Chocolate History Class for Valentine's Day
Celebrate the holiday with a deep dive into the origins and evolution of chocolate.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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Orange County Public Libraries are hosting a special cooking class led by Maite Gomez-Rejón of ArtBites and the 'Hungry for History' podcast. Participants will trace the history of cacao from its ancient Mesoamerican roots to its rise as a symbol of love, learning how it was cultivated, traded, sweetened, and transformed into modern chocolate. The class will also include a hands-on chocolate truffle making activity.
Why it matters
This event provides an opportunity for the community to learn about the fascinating history and cultural significance of chocolate, a beloved Valentine's Day treat. By offering this unique educational experience, the OC libraries are promoting culinary history and bringing people together around a shared love of food.
The details
The chocolate history class will be held at two OC library branches - the first on Sunday, February 14th at the Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library, and the second on February 21st at the Los Alamitos-Rossmoor Branch Library. All supplies will be provided, and the event is open to adult audiences.
- The first session will be held on Sunday, February 14, 2026 at 1 p.m.
- The second session will be held on February 21, 2026 at 2 p.m.
The players
Maite Gomez-Rejón
The founder of ArtBites and host of the 'Hungry for History' podcast, who will be leading the chocolate history class.
OC Public Libraries
The library system hosting the chocolate history class at two of its branches.
What’s next
Interested participants should contact the individual branch libraries for registration details.
The takeaway
This event provides a unique opportunity for the community to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of chocolate, a beloved Valentine's Day treat, while also engaging in a hands-on chocolate making activity.
