While much of Germany eagerly waits for the opening of traditional Christmas markets, the charming town of Tübingen is preparing for ChocolART — the largest chocolate festival in Europe!

Located approximately 40 minutes south of Stuttgart and 2.5 hours southeast of the Kaiserslautern area, Tübingen’s half-timbered Altstadt transforms into a chocolate wonderland of delicious treats and confections.

With more than 100 chocolatiers, plenty of tasting and sampling will be available. There will be hands-on courses in candy making, seminars about the history of chocolate and cacao, and exotic culinary offerings from local restaurants. Children ages 7-18 can make custom chocolates and packaging with German chocolate giant, Ritter Sport.

Festival hours are:Dec. 5, Tuesday, 1 to 8 p.m.,Dec. 6-8, Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Dec. 9, Saturday 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.,Dec. 10, Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.chocolart.de