Our History

Here in Charlotte County we are proud of Ganong Bros. Limited, Canada’s oldest candy company. The process of creating quality chocolates and candy, begun by brothers James and Gilbert Ganong in 1873, has been passed down from generation to generation in the beautiful town of St. Stephen, NB. That spotlight on the wonder of chocolate resulted in the opening of The Chocolate Museum in 1999, its expansion as a Chocolate Discovery Centre in 2009 and a continued successful partnership of town and company in both the festival and the museum.Chocolate Fest celebrates our rich and delicious heritage.

In 2000, St. Stephen was officially registered as ‘Canada’s Chocolate Town’ as a mark of the importance of chocolate in its past and present.

"The Great Chocolate Mousse" is our official mascot. In 1994 The Great Chocolate Mousse married Tiffany and in 2009 they adopted Teddy. The Chocolate Mousse and his family are very popular during the festival with both young and old chocolate lovers. They bring out the child in all of us. Look for them at all the events; give them a hug and be sure to take advantage of this photo opportunity.

"PAL-O-MINE" History

Ganong Bros. Limited has been one of the chocolate industry's most important companies. Arthur Ganong was the first to make any sort of a wrapped chocolate bar; Ganong began selling the first chocolate bars in 1910. In 1920 they began using the brand name "Pal-O-Mine" for their chocolate bar.

Be a “Pal of Mine” --- Support Chocolate Fest
Look for pink signage and purchase a Pal-O-Mine bar for a $1.00. All proceeds go to Chocolate Fest. Bars available at retail locations throughout the Charlotte County area.