Locals will travel from business to business collecting chocolate-themed treats during Main Street Kent’s Chocolate Walk on Feb. 11 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Although the event is sold out, Executive Director for Main Street Kent Heather Malarcik said she hopes people will come out and support local businesses.

Check in starts between noon and 1 p.m., and participants will pick up their Chocolate Walk maps, passes and bags.

“Everyone who bought tickets will check in at Erie Street Kitchen, which is at the Venice Cafe, and then when they check in they will get their first chocolate treat there,” Malarcik said.

Malarcik said she hopes the event will encourage attendees to visit businesses that are new to downtown Kent.

“They will be able to go around town wherever they want. They don’t have to go in any particular order,” Malarcik said.

Guests can expect to receive a variety of chocolate candy, baked goods and other chocolate concoctions from participating businesses such as Squirrel City Jewelers, Popped!, Branded at Kent and more.

Main Street Kent has hosted at least ten chocolate walks throughout the past years.

“We always do this event around Valentine’s Day to try and get people to go out and explore downtown on a day they might normally stay inside,” said Malarcik. “We have a lot of businesses that are excited to showcase what they have for Valentine’s Day.”

Chloe Cornely is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].