The Oxford United Methodist Church is holding its annual Chocolate Festival on Saturday, March 9 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the church’s Fellowship Hall. 

Be a baker, a contestant, or a taster of chocolate creations at this very popular event. 

The contest takes place in the morning when entrants can bring their homemade treats for judging between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. There are new categories for this year— cakes, cupcakes, candy/fudge, cookies other deserts, and items made by children 16 and under. All entries must include chocolate. All entries are to be presented as a whole or a whole batch, such as a whole cake, a dozen cupcakes or a full batch of fudge. All entries must be presented in a disposable container. No containers will be returned.  No refrigerated items will be accepted. 

After judging is completed, the entries will be divided into separate servings along with a wide assortment of other chocolate treats donated by church and community members. These delicious items will be made available to ticket purchasers at one sample per ticket. Tickets are five for $5 – cash only. 

Purchase tickets at the door starting at 1 p.m. and venture through the aisles of chocolate goodies in the Fellowship Hall to find your favorites, but don’t debate too long. This is a popular event and items go fast, so it pays to be early. The event lasts until 3 p.m. or until all the items are sold out. Containers will be provided. Outside containers are not permitted. 

Winners of the baking competition will be announced at 2 p.m. You can also try your luck at games where you try to guess the number of candies in a jar. The closest guess wins the candy. Contact the church office at 610-932-9698 for additional information.

Proceeds from this event will go to the Oxford United Women in Faith for mission projects.

Another long-running popular event at the Oxford United Methodist Church is the annual Easter Egg sale. Individually boxed, half-pound, chocolate-covered and decorated Easter Eggs are made on site at the church by volunteers. Flavors are Coconut Crème, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Nut and Butter Cream. They are sold only in advance by placing an order at 610-932-4556. The final day to order is Sunday, Feb. 25. 

Egg orders must be picked up Wednesday, March 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m and 4 to 6 p.m. 

The Oxford United Methodist Church is located at 18 Addison Street in Oxford.