Ranger Chocolate Co. Announces Sweet Success of Inaugural Portland Craft Chocolate Festival

PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ranger Chocolate Co. today announced the overwhelming success of the first annual Portland Craft Chocolate Festival, which concluded this past weekend, drawing nearly 2,000 attendees and featuring more than 30 exhibitors from across the Pacific Northwest. Over three days, the event united chocolate lovers, makers, and industry professionals in a vibrant celebration of craft, community, and creativity.

Hosted at the historic Olympic Mills Building in Portland's Industrial Eastside, the festival featured craft chocolate makers, confectioners, and local food & beverage artisans. The sold-out VIP "Meet the Makers" evening kicked off the weekend, setting the stage for tastings, discussions, and exciting collaborations across the chocolate community. Mornings began with lines wrapped around the block before doors opened, underscoring Portland's growing passion for all things chocolate.

"I felt our city was missing a festival that has chocolate at its core. And, I wanted this to be by makers, and for makers. The reaction was overwhelming — a clear message that Portland has been waiting for this kind of festival," said George Domurot, founder of Ranger Chocolate Co. and organizer of the event. "Our goal was to bring together makers, growers, and innovators from across the Northwest — and the response has been incredible. The enthusiasm from both participants and guests shows that there's a true appetite for the craft chocolate movement here."

A Weekend of Flavor and Discovery

Festival highlights included guided tastings, live demonstrations, and a bustling marketplace filled with bean-to-bar chocolates, bonbons, artisan confections, spirits, wines, hazelnuts, and other handmade goods. Attendees explored the world of chocolate through hands-on learning about ethical sourcing, sustainability, and craftsmanship — discovering firsthand why Portland stands out as a leader in the national craft food scene.

The festival also featured an engaging panel discussion series, connecting makers with leaders in retail, business development, and finance. These conversations provided valuable insight and mentorship for local brands eager to expand their reach.

Fan Favorites

Each attendee received a festival wooden token to vote for the Fan Favorite exhibitor. This year's Top 10 Fan Favorites are:

1. Ranger Chocolate Co.
2. Bees & Beans
3. Creo Chocolate
4. Missionary Chocolates
5. Oregon Bark
6. Stache Chocolate
7. Wildwood Chocolate
8. Portland Caramel Company
9. Sh'mallow
10. SiBEiHO — OMG!

Community and Collaboration

The festival's success was made possible through the support of community partners, including Prosper Portland and PNC Bank, along with sponsorships from many of Portland's leading food and beverage companies such as Bees & Beans, Oregon Bark, Business Oregon, The Meadow, Elephant's Deli, and PNW F&B.

"We're already looking ahead to next year," Domurot added. "The energy and collaboration we saw this weekend confirm that Portland deserves a permanent place on the national craft chocolate map."

About the Portland Craft Chocolate Festival

The Portland Craft Chocolate Festival celebrates the artistry, sustainability, and innovation of bean-to-bar chocolate makers and artisan confectioners. The event connects the region's thriving craft chocolate community with retailers, growers, and chocolate enthusiasts through education, tasting, and shared experiences.

Media Contact:
Caroline Arya, [email protected]

For more information, updates, and ticket sales for the Portland Craft Chocolate Festival, visit pdxccf.com or email [email protected].

SOURCE Ranger Chocolate Co.