Malta Development Blog

The "First Fridays" themed events bring together Ballston Spa, Malta, Saratoga Springs and all the neighboring communities together for special happenings on the first Friday of the month throughout the year. It's a chance for community members from Saratoga County to enjoy visiting featured shops, art exhibits, live music, and plenty of family-friendly activities. This year's First Fridays kick off with Chocolate Fest, sponsored by Mangino Chevrolet Buick GMC and the Ballston Spa's Business & Professional Association.
 
The 3rd annual Chocolate Fest takes place on Friday, February 5 from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm, making it an appropriate prelude for this romantic month. Chocolate Fest offers sample chocolate tastings in three categories: dessert, savory, and beverage. Each tasting is only $1 and at the end you get to vote for your favorite in each category. Not only will you get to satisfy your sweet tooth, but it also serves as an unforgettably romantic precursor to Valentine's Day. Here's what you can expect at this year's Chocolate Fest.
 

Kid-friendly Activities

Looking for a chance to enjoy Chocolate Fest without the kiddos? In previous years, the Ballston Area Community Center offered an activities program for kids (ages 6-13) from Saratoga County. Kids could participate in indoor recreational activities, show off their artistic flair with art projects, and mingle with their peers while their parents enjoy the chocolate tastings. Admission is $10 per child and runs for the entirety of Chocolate Fest.
 

Chocolate Tastings

If you live in Saratoga County, but haven't taken a stroll through downtown Ballston Spa, the Chocolate Fest is your perfect chance to do so. Come experience its old town charm with modern amenities and visit many of their "Sweet Spot" locations for unique chocolate creations. Whether you like dark chocolate, white chocolate, or milk chocolate, there's something for everyone.
 
Past winners:

• Dessert: D-Line Pub's Triple Chocolate Brownies
• Savory: Zest Catering's Asado De Bodas (Pork Chili and chocolate)
• Beverage: Zest Catering's Chocolate Mock-Tini and Coffee Planet's drink version of the Turtle Candy with coffee, caramel, hazelnut, and chocolate.

Deals and Discounts

During your downtime, visit local establishments for one-time only deals such as 20% off storewide, contests, and dinner and drink specials. If you want something more interactive, visit local art galleries and studios for their craft booths, demonstrations, and presentations.
 
Interested in attending? Here are the details:
 
What: 3rd Annual Chocolate Fest
 
When: Friday, February 5, 2016 from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
 
Where: Downtown Ballston Spa
 
Cost: Free admission
 
For more information, visit www.ballston.org