chocolate museum tour by willy wonka

• TV & Film
• Say Maaate to a Mate
• First Impressions - The Game
• Daily Ladness
• Citizen Reef

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories , we're happy to send you some reminders

Click ' OK ' then ' Allow ' to enable notifications

• ​Lindt To Open Willy Wonka-Style Chocolate Museum And Tour

Due to open on 13 September, the interactive attraction will let visitors into Lindt’s wonderful world of chocolate

Jess Hardiman

Lindt is launching a brand new chocolate museum and tour experience this week, and it sounds like Willy Wonka would be very proud indeed.

Planned and designed by Atelier Br ü ckner, the Lindt Home of chocolate is located in Keilberg near Zurich, Switzerland .

Due to open on 13 September, the interactive attraction will let visitors into Lindt's wonderful world of chocolate, providing information on the origins, history and production of the cocoa-based sweet treat.

In the foyer of the museum, you'll find t he world's highest free-standing chocolate fountain, measuring 9.3 metres high and circulating 1,000 litres of liquid chocolate - all flowing from a huge, hovering wire whi sk down into a Lindor ball on the ground.

Once inside, you're then free to roam a 1,500 square metre exhibition space, which each room designed individually to explore a different aspect of the world of chocolate.

One section sees you able to travel to a cocoa plantation in Ghana, where you'll learn everything about the cultivation, harvesting, fermentation and drying of cocoa beans - as well as about the quality assurance process.

A 'Chocolate History' room teaches you all about the 5,000-year history of chocolate, with a digitally animated 360-degree panorama and round media table explaining how the preparation and consumption of the product has changed over the centuries .

A 'Swiss Pioneers' room also shows how Switzerland became the 'home of chocolate', while a time tunnel illustrates the changes in manufacturing and marketing of Swiss chocolate from 1900 until 2000.

In the next part of the experience, a room based on a real-life factory lets you find out how chocolate production works today - with three chocolate springs of white, milk and dark chocolate that you can taste promising a 'special attraction'.

After checking out the 'Chocolate Cosmos', which features an 'atmospheric projection of stars', you can finally make your way to 'Chocolate Heaven', where you'll be able to taste a sample of Lindt products.

There are also large Lindor balls that double up as photo booths, so that you can mark the occasion with a snap.

But that's not where things end, as before you head off you can cross a bridge over the foyer to the 'Innovation Lab', which looks into various questions about the future, such as: can there be chocolate without cocoa trees? How is artificial intelligence changing the production of chocolate? And can chocolate be made in a carbon-neutral manner?

At the heart of the lab is a real testing system, where specialists develop new chocolate creations, with visitors given an X-ray view inside the machinery through augmented animation.

The tour then comes to a delicious end with a chocolate souvenir, with a small bar of chocolate from the testing system, packaged in a golden ball, rolling through a specially-designed marble run and into your hands.

The Lindt Home of Chocolate is open from 10am to 6pm, Monday to Sunday. Enquiries for guided tours and workshops, in which it is possible to design one's own chocolate creations, can be submitted here .

Topics:  Food , World News , News , travel , Chocolate

Jess is a journalist at LADbible who graduated from Manchester University with a degree in Film Studies, English Language and Linguistics - indecisiveness at its finest, right there. She also works for FOODbible and its sister page Seitanists, which are both a safe haven for her to channel a love for homemade pasta, fennel and everything else in between. You can contact Jess at [email protected] .

@ Jess_Hardiman

• People concerned Willy Wonka experience will happen again after seeing Eurovision village set up
• Police called to 'shambles' Willy Wonka experience as angry families demand full refund
• Scary moment plane smashes nose into runway while having to perform emergency landing

Choose your content:

Disturbing '996' work culture that was made illegal after leading to employee deaths

This cultural trend was causing workers to drop dead.

Dana White's viral video of FedEx delivery driver leads to him getting fired

That would be the driver, not dana white, who got fired.

Fans who have visited Clarkson's Farm reveal how often they see Jeremy and Lisa at farm shop

Lisa hogan runs the diddly squat farm shop but isn't always seen behind its till.

WhatsApp confirms biggest change to app in years that's about to hit your phone

The update will be on both android and iphone, with whatsapp having since explained why the changes are being made.

Lindt has a ‘Willy Wonka-style’ chocolate museum and tour with world’s biggest chocolate fountain

This looks amazing!

Lindt has opened a ‘Willy Wonka-style’ chocolate museum and you don’t need a golden ticket to get in! 

Dedicated to the history and production of one of Switzerland’s most delicious exports, which dates back to 1845, this place gives Willy Wonka a run for his money. 

The museum contains the world’s highest free-standing chocolate fountain standing a whopping 9.3 metres high, circulating 1,000 litres of liquid delicious chocolate.

Lindt & Sprüngli

The huge exhibition space spans 1,500 square metres and gives you an insight into each aspect of the chocolate world through each different and specially designed room. 

The Chocolate History room will show guests the 5,000 year-long history of chocolate, and the Swiss Pioneers room explains how Switzerland became the home of chocolate.

There’s also a real-life factory that will demonstrate exactly how modern production actually works – plus you’ll get to taste springs of white, dark and milk chocolate in the Unlimited Chocolate Tasting room.

Then there’s the wackiest room of all, the ‘Innovation Lab’, where you can get any of your wildest chocolatiest questions answered. 

The Chocolate Factory – sorry, Lindt Home of Chocolate – is open in Zurich, and is well worth a trip to Switzerland for.

Get ‘golden tickets’ and find out more info here .   

Fifteen countries have banned all travel from the UK

Up to 24 countries could be added to the green list this week, according to travel expert

You may like

Passport fees are rising tomorrow for second time in 14 months

Passport fees to rise within weeks as home office confirms new prices.

Brand new Stockport interchange with rooftop garden now open

Wizz Air launch mystery holiday deal where you find out destination when you land

Man discovers it’s cheaper to stay in 5-star resort than rent in Manchester

P&O launches ‘80s and ‘90s themed mini cruises to Amsterdam from £89

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Things are getting more expensive, again…

In bad news for holidaymakers, the cost of getting a new passport is set to rise once again. The Home Office has confirmed that passport fees are set to rise by more than 7% from tomorrow, under new proposals. This means the cost of online applications within the UK, for anyone aged 16 and over, will increase from £82.50 to £88.50.

Mikey / Flickr

Children under 16 will also see an increase in passport costs, with the price rising to £57.50 from £53.50. Overseas and postal applications will also rise at a similar level, with postal increasing to £100 for adults and £69 for children, and an online overseas application rising to £101 for adults and £65.50 for children.

The new charges will officially be in place from tomorrow, Thursday April 11th. Last year passport fees increased by around 9%, back in February 2023.

Ethan Wilkinson / Unsplash

The Home Office said in a statement: “The new fees will help ensure that income from these applications better meets the cost of delivering passport and associated operations, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation. “The Government does not make any profit from the cost of passport applications.

“The fees contribute to the cost of processing passport applications, consular support overseas including for lost or stolen passports, and the cost of processing British citizens at UK borders. “The increase will also help enable the Government to continue improving its services.”

In bad news for holidaymakers, the cost of getting a new passport is set to rise once again. The Home Office has confirmed that passport fees are set to rise by more than 7% next month, under new proposals. This means the cost of online applications within the UK, for anyone aged 16 and over, will increase from £82.50 to £88.50.

While the changes are still subject to parliamentary approval, if passed they will be in place from April 11th. Last year passport fees increased by around 9%, back in February 2023.

Enter the competition to win a ticket

If you’re dreaming of catching a jet plane to just about anywhere, well Wizz Air have launched a holiday deal where the mystery location isn’t revealed until you land.

The Hungarian airline will take a plane full of holiday hopefuls from London Gatwick for a four-day mystery getaway as part of its #LetsGetLostwithWIZZ campaign.

Those who win a ticket to the unknown location, will turn up to London Gatwick on March 7th to board a Wizz Air flight for ‘four days of fun , including cultural, culinary and adventure activities’ – it could turn out to be the trip of a lifetime!

To be in with a chance of winning a seat on the flight, UK residents can visit the Wizz Air’s Instagram page and follow the prompts on the Let’s Get Lost London pinned post.

“Entries close on February 22nd at 00.01am”, the low-cost airline says. 

The lucky chosen ones will be able to bring a plus one on the trip and winners will be contacted via Instagram.

In a post shared to its official Instagram page, the airline put: “It’s time to get onboard our latest venture to the unknown with Let’s Get Lost London, departing from London Gatwick to…

“Do this by the 22nd February and you could be in with a chance of departing with us on an exciting flight to the unknown.

“The trip will take place between 7th – 10th March. Open to UK residents only, please make sure you’re following WIZZ on Instagram and that your profile is public.”

If you’re wondering whether you’ll need your bathing suit, suncream, hiking boots, rain coat or winter woollies, don’t worry, the 35 lucky winners will be told the climate to pack for a few days before the trip.

No other clues will be given away until touch down in the unknown destination.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wizz Air (@wizzair)

UK Wizz Air Managing Director, Marion Geoffroy said: “We love connecting our passengers to new countries, allowing them to meet new people and try new experiences. 

“Going on a flight to an unknown destination is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and we are pleased to be able to offer this to lucky winners here in the UK.

“Let’s Get Lost is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to our British passengers and we hope to continue serving them as they travel the world and make new memories.”

Wizz Air flies to more than 70 destinations from the UK. Last year, the most popular destinations among Brits included Morocco, Cyprus, Greece, Turkey and Spain.

It is unclear whether the airline will jet the 35 lucky ticket holders and plus ones off to one of its more popular destination choices, or whether it will choose to take them somewhere a little more alternative and secluded.

Got a story to tell?

Have you got a story or video you think our audience will love? We want to hear from you, drop us an email on [email protected] and we’ll get back to you.

Find something to do in Manchester

• View all places
• Browse the Northern Quarter
• See all Manchester restaurants

Receive our latest news, events & unique stories

Stagecoach hiring over 100 new bus drivers for Bee Network with £31k salaries

Manchester Flower Festival returns with tributes to Sarah Harding and Caroline Aherne

Billie Eilish announces FOUR Manchester shows as part of world tour

Two men charged with murder after torso discovered in Salford nature reserve

More human remains discovered in Greater Manchester as police identify victim

Popeyes opening new drive-thru in Manchester tomorrow with FREE chicken

A Huge Chocolate Museum With The World’s Biggest Chocolate Fountain Opens This Weekend

Enter a world of pure imagination at Lindt Home of Chocolate – Switzerland’s brand new chocolate museum and tour.

Lindt is opening a new Willy Wonka-style chocolate museum and tour, and rumour has it Grandpa Joe may actually hop out of bed for this one. While we can’t promise you Oompa Loompas or Mr Wonka himself, from September 13 this magical museum will offer guests a unique insight into the wonderful world of chocolate. Lindt Home of Chocolate is located in Kilchberg, Switzerland and just like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, you’ll learn all about the history and production of their legendary bars, truffles. and pralines. Fortunately, you won’t need a golden ticket to enter, just a regular one that you can purchase here . [Featured image: @lindthomeofchocolate ]

SEE ALSO: A ‘Willy Wonka’ Style Chocolate Factory With Its Own Rollercoaster Is Set To Hit Amsterdam

View this post on Instagram

Did we mention that Lindt Home of Chocolate is also home to the highest free-standing chocolate fountain in the entire world? It is a whopping 9.3 metres high and circulates 1,000 litres of liquid chocolate that flows out of a massive hovering wire whisk and into a Lindor ball directly below. It really is sight for sore eyes.

The museum is designed so that each room will teach you something new and exciting about the cocoa-based sweet treat. You’ll come across a ‘Chocolate History’ room which really does what it says on the tin. Essentially, it will inform you on how the preparation and consumption of the product has changed over the last 5,000 years, using a digitally animated 360-degree round table. If this was a module at university, Lord knows we would’ve taken it.

SEE ALSO: A Chocolate-Themed Bar With Free Flowing Chocolate Taps Has Opened In Amsterdam

Subsequently, a room designed in the spitting image of a real chocolate factory will take you through the modern production process, and there are three chocolate fountains that you can dip into (for educational purposes, of course). Finally, ‘Chocolate Heaven’ is where you’ll be able to sample Lindt products – it is a heavenly experience indeed. And if you want a photo to document the wonderful day out, the large Lindt balls hanging from the ceiling actually double up as photo-booths, so it’s multitasking and efficiency at its finest.

While many visitors choose to roam freely, you will have the option of a guided tour with a chocolatier taking you through each room step by step. Or if you want to get your hands dirty, they host a very popular workshop where you can design and produce your own chocolate creation to take home with you.

It’s not the first time Lindt has made the news recently – they recently covered a Swiss town in ‘chocolate snow’ after a malfunction at one of their factories !

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

• Entertainment
• Royal Family
• Food & Drink
• Mental Health
• Sex & Relationships
• Documentaries
• I'm a Celebrity

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories , we're happy to send you some reminders

Click ' OK ' then ' Allow ' to enable notifications

Lindt To Open A Magical New Willy Wonka Style Chocolate Museum And Tour

If you have a sweet tooth then the lindt home of chocolate is your dream..

Joanna Freedman

A Lindt chocolate museum and tour is opening, and it's practically heaven on earth for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Like Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, the magical new attraction will teach visitors about the origins, history and production of their iconic chocolate truffles and bars - and there'll be plenty of sweet treats along the way too.

Based in Keilberg, near Zurich, Switzerland, the museum is due to open on 13 September for visitors to roam around and learn about the magic of Lindt.

There's loads to discover simply wandering around in the 1,500 square metre exhibition space, within which each room explores a the world of chocolate in a different way.

But you can also take part in guided tours and even workshops, in which you can design your own chocolate creation. Find out more about those here.

So, what's inside the museum?

As you step into the foyer, you'll discover t he world's highest free-standing chocolate fountain, which is designed to look like a hovering wire whisk with chocolate spilling into a Lindor ball on the ground.

Seriously... it's 9.3 metres high and circulates a whopping 1,000 litres of liquid chocolate.

Are they trying to encourage Augustus Gloop round 2?

Another section takes visitors right into a cocoa plantation in Ghana, where they will be given the opportunity learn everything about how cocoa bans are cultivated, harvested and fermented, before they're dried out and tested, to ensure they're the perfect quality.

Meanwhile, the 'Swiss Pioneers' room nods to Lindt's country of heritage, and shows why Switzerland is the 'home of chocolate', sending you down a time tunnel to learn about the way that manufacturing and marketing Swiss chocolate has changed from 1900 until 2000.

A 'Chocolate History' room is also on site, to teach us about the 5,000-years of chocolate from start for finish.

But this isn't a dull history lesson - oh, no.

In this room, there's a digitally animated 360-degree panorama and round media table for guests to get involved with, and interactively learn about the preparation and consumption of Lindt, and how it has evolved over time.

The next part of the experience is the most Willy Wonka of all. It's a room based on a real-life factory, so you can witness how chocolate production works today and maybe even check out some of the new products the team are working on, if you're lucky.

Inside, there are also three chocolate fountains - white, milk and dark - so that you can taste the creations moments after seeing how they are made.

You'll then be sent to check out the 'Chocolate Cosmos', which features an 'atmospheric projection of stars', before making your way to 'Chocolate Heaven', where you'll be able to taste even more mouthwatering Lindt products.

If that wasn't enough, t here are also gigantic Lindor balls that double up as photo booths - perfect for the 'gram.

The final area of the Lindt museum is probably our favourite. It's called the ' Innovation Lab', and it essentially delves into the future of chocolate production, and explores what's next for Lindt.

Some of the questions it ponders are whether we can create chocolate without cocoa trees, if it can made in a carbon-neutral manner and even whether AI (artificial intelligence) could play a significant part in chocolate production.

This space also features a real Lindt testing system, giving visitors an insight into where inventors develop their new flavour creations for the first time, and even using augmented animation to offer an X-ray view inside the machines.

You'll be treated to a small bar of chocolate from the testing system at the end, which is packaged in a classic golden ball.

The Lindt Home of Chocolate is open from 10am to 6pm, Monday to Sunday.

We don't know about you, but we could quite happily live at this museum for all eternity.

Topics:  Tasty Food , Chocolate

Joanna is a journalist at Tyla with a particular interest in highlighting women's issues and telling inspiring first person stories. She's also their resident foodie, and loves covering exciting new beauty launches, too. Contact her at [email protected] .

@ joannafreedman

Choose your content:

People Are Making Creme Egg Croissants And They Look Amazing

These look so good.

Is It Cake Viewers Spot 'Controversial' Detail With Hemu's Elephant Cake

Tyla Bakes: People Are Making Biscoff Pavlova And It Looks Delish

This looks dreamy.

People Are Divided Over ‘Wasteful’ Bacon Grease Hack

What do you think.

• Charlotte Tilbury's magical new perfumes look and smell like something out of a Disney movie
• You Can Now Get Lindt Chocolate Spread At ASDA And We're Drooling
• Kids Can Get Free Lindt Chocolate During Half Term
• A Willy Wonka Style Sweet Shop Is Opening In The UK

Lindt is opening a Willy-Wonka style chocolate museum tour

It will house the world's highest chocolate fountain - and there's unlimited chocolate tasting throughout

• 07:33, 12 SEP 2020
• Updated 14:07, 12 SEP 2020

Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester

We have more newsletters

Luxury chocolate brand Lindt is inviting fans to their new Willy-Wonka's style musuem - no golden ticket required.

The Swiss chocolatier is set to open the doors to the Home of Chocolate on September 13, offering chocolate lovers the chance to get a unique insight into how the sweets are made.

Museum bosses say the 1,500 square metre chocolate exhibition space will welcome guests to learn all about the world of chocolate, from its history, its creation and cultural significance - with the bonus of unlimited chocolate tasting throughout.

The attraction will also feature the world's highest free-standing chocolate fountain. At over 9 metres tall, it holds 1,500 kg of real flowing chocolate that passes through the fountain, dripping from an enormous whisk and spilling over a giant Lindor ball below.

Visitors will also be able to take part in chocolate making classes hosted by the master chocolatiers where they can design their own sweet creations.

The chocolate history room  features a 'digitally interactive panoramic wall and round media table' to allow guests to get a hands-on look at how the humble cocoa bean has been cultivated to become one of the world's favourite's treats.

Meanwhile, the factory room reveals how Lindt chocolate production works today, with three working chocolate fountains with white, milk and dark chocolate.

Visitors can follow every step of the process that transforms the beans into cocoa liquor, then into liquid chocolate, and finally into perfect bars and pralines - before tasting the creations right after seeing how they are made.

The museum will also house the biggest ever Lindt Boutique on the planet, while for fans of Lindt’s famous Lindor balls, there are also photo booths that come in the shape of one of the brand’s iconic sweet treats.

At the end of the tour endless fine Lindt creations can be tasted and enjoyed in the 'Chocolate Heaven' tasting room. You can find out more on the museum's website .

It took 36 months to construct the Home of Chocolate, which is located in Kilchberg near Zurich.

It comes after the brand announced it would be releasing an assortment tin of their popular Lindor truffles in time for Christmas 2020.

Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here . And you can follow us on Facebook here .

• Most Recent

• Recent Searches
• Trending News

• Latest Updates

Web Stories

Today's E-Paper

Hello, Health!

• Latest News

Pride Month

View All Latest

• Subscribe to Mid-Day Gold
• Subscribe to E-paper
• Premium stories from Sunday Mid-Day
• Best Value Deal!

Mother's Day

Father's Day

• Mid-Day Gold

• Mumbai News
• Mumbai Crime News
• Mumbai Rains
• Offbeat News
• Opinion News
• Bollywood News
• Web Series News
• Hollywood News
• Television News
• Regional Indian Cinema News
• Korean Entertainment News
• Weddings And Relationships
• Fashion And Beauty
• Cricket News
• Football News
• Other Sports News
• Fashion News
• Culture News
• Travel News
• Health & Fitness News
• Relationships News
• Infotainment News
• Nature & Wildlife News

Mid-Day Web Stories

• Sunday Mid-Day
• Mumbai Food News
• Things to do News
• Famous Personalities News

• BM Text Drops
• Elections 2024
• News for You
• Careers at Mid-Day

Trending Now

Explore the Chocolate Museum with Willy Wonka this Saturday in Mumbai

Updated on: 02 August,2023 07:54 AM IST  |  Mumbai Tanishka D’Lyma | [email protected]

• Text  

Join in for an interactive and experiential tour where the popular literary character will guide you through the history of chocolate using cocoa installations and a workshop

Representation Pic

The Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts (APCA) will make children’s (and grown-ups’) dreams come true with a Golden Ticket to the Chocolate Museum tour conducted by their very own Willy Wonka this Saturday. While chocolate tastings and workshops have become a regular weekend activity with frequent events popping up across the city, APCA takes it further by recreating the magic of chocolate as Roald Dahl and Tim Burton imagined it in the book and film, respectively.

ADVERTISEMENT

Assistant pastry chef Rubani Singh will get into her Willy Wonka attire and lead the tour that will follow the history of chocolate and its journey from bean to bar. This segment of the tour is aided by visual representations of the chocolate-y kind; the pastry team has prepared installations depicting various aspects of chocolate history through sculptures made of chocolate. This includes small-scale edible displays of the cacao tree, utensils used to grind and drink chocolate, a miniature vending machine as well as Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec serpent god who is said to have gifted his people the cacao plant.

Singh and executive pastry chef Dean Rodrigues will guide participants in a tasting session and a workshop. “We will explain the different flavour profiles and notes in varieties of single-origin chocolate from across countries, along with tasting bonbons and truffles made by our team. And the workshop will teach participants how to work with chocolate, including tempering it and creating bars by themselves with customised toppings to take home later,” she shares. The aim of the tour, which is open to participants above the age of 14 years, goes beyond developing an overall appreciation for chocolate.

Rodrigues adds, “We will not only focus on the consumption aspect of chocolate to help people understand flavours when they eat it, but also on its application such as the flavours that a variety of chocolate will contribute to a dish or  other flavour combinations, so that they can use it in different forms.” APCA founder, Dinesh Sharma notes that the tour will share the richness of information about chocolate from every perspective  — historical, culinary and experiential.

Still excited about the prospect of having a fun and eccentric character for a guide — not something often seen with tours in the city — we ask Singh about her preparation. “I have watched the movie at least 10 times now, to study his personality and mannerism from his walk to his laugh,” she chuckles. The dedication and attention to detail put into the tour, chocolate installations and participation takeaway surely make this experience one that you should not miss. 

On: August 5; 11 am to 2 pm At: APCA Mumbai, A Wing, Litolier Chambers, Marol, Andheri East.  Log on to: @apca_india Call: 9987011137  Entry: Rs 2,500

Midday Syndication • This is our original content. Please fill up the form for authorized use of the content.

New customer info, existing customer info, nature of the client.

Captcha Code

Register for FREE to continue reading !

This is not a paywall. however, your registration helps us understand your preferences better and enables us to provide insightful and credible journalism for all our readers., subscribe to newsletter, next story : football to badminton: here's a list of indoor venues where you can play your favourite sports.

Lindt opens Willy Wonka-style chocolate museum

Words:  Bea Mitchell

| 2 min read

Lindt opened a Willy Wonka-style chocolate museum called Lindt’s Home of Chocolate, featuring the world’s highest free-standing chocolate fountain, on September 13.

Lindt’s Home of Chocolate, from the charitable Lindt Chocolate Competence Foundation, is located on Lindt & Sprüngli’s factory premises at in Kilchberg, Switzerland.

The attraction features the world’s highest free-standing chocolate fountain, with 1,000 litres of melted chocolate flowing to cover a giant Lindor ball.

“The chocolate fountain is the centerpiece of the Lindt Home of Chocolate and represents a homage to the globally renowned and popular Lindor truffles,” said Ernst Tanner , president of the Lindt Chocolate Competence Foundation.

Lindt museum located in Kilchberg, Switzerland

“The Lindt Home of Chocolate will play an important role in safeguarding Switzerland’s position as a chocolate country in the long-term, as well as contribute to the transfer of knowledge across the entire industry,” added Ernst.

Lindt’s Home of Chocolate also boasts a multimedia and interactive exhibition, a research facility, show production, and the Pralines Tasting Room.

In addition, it will house the world’s largest Lindt chocolate shop, a Lindt café, and the Lindt Chocolateria for chocolate courses.

The museum’s interactive exhibition is comprised of seven different chocolate worlds, inviting visitors to discover the origins of cocoa.

Visit the world’s largest Lindt chocolate shop

https://www.instagram.com/p/CE_d8hUHAq3/

Plans for the building were drawn up by architects Christ & Gantenbein. “The chocolate is implicitly celebrated with round shapes, a soft touch, and maybe even a general sweetness,” the studio told Dezeen .

“Chocolate is a part of our national identity and the chocolate industry is an extremely important economic sector of our country,” said Ueli Maurer , member of the Swiss Federal Council.

“For this reason, fostering local chocolate expertise is synonymous with boosting Switzerland as an economic location.”

Elsewhere, Hersheypark reopened with the $150 million Hershey’s Chocolatetown expansion, which features Candymonium – the tallest, fastest, and longest coaster at Hersheypark.

Want more articles 
like this for FREE?

Get the latest attractions industry
 news direct to your inbox, 
every day.

• Blooloop daily
• Blooloop weekly

Bea Mitchell

More from this author.

Exploring the future of museums at CTA 2024: sustainability, inclusivity & engagement

History attracts a new crowd: the immersive revolution in museums

5 best-practice ticketing recommendations for museums & heritage attractions in 2024

Immersive art and the ecosystem it lacks

University museums are experiencing a renaissance

A Covid Inquiry for visitor attractions: are we better prepared now?

Enjoying this article.

Universal says 92% of people surveyed support UK theme park plans

teamLab Borderless to open in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia this summer

Universal Studios Hollywood to open new Fast & Furious roller coaster in 2026

United Parks & Resorts reports Q1 attendance and revenue growth

Related content.

THG Creative collaborates with The National WWII Museum on new immersive theatre

Inside 'The Rising' restoration project at Raby Castle

SSA Group celebrates win at Shop! Design Awards for Strong Museum of Play

Amsterdam reckons with its past at National Holocaust Museum

Your web browser is out of date. Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.

Travelling Without a Passport

Willy Wonka Style Chocolate Travel Destinations

With the release of the new Willy Wonka movie, everyone will be dreaming of chocolate. Here are the best chocolate travel destinations

Excited about the upcoming release of Wonka , the hotly anticipated prequel to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ? We are, too! The musical movie all about the eccentric chocolate maker and his fantastical creations has us dreaming about sweet treats around the world.

Whether you’re a chocoholic, want to buy a loved one an indulgent souvenir, or are interested in learning more about the history of the rich delicacy, there are plenty of chocolate locations around the world where the sweet treat can play a key part in your adventures. From the capital of chocolate and the place that is thought to have given Roald Dahl his passion for the sweet stuff, to the birthplace of chocolate, here are some of the best chocolate locations to travel to.

Kilchberg, Switzerland

While you’re unlikely to bump into an Oompa Loompa at Lindt Home of Chocolate, you will be able to visit the biggest Lindt chocolate shop in the world and see a chocolate fountain that’s nearly 30 feet tall. In Kilchberg on Lake Zurich, next door to a historic chocolate factory that’s been open since 1899, you can book a tour to learn about the origins of chocolate, discover how cocoa beans are transformed into the treat and gain an insight into the workings of a real chocolate factory. As an extra bonus, Lindt chocolatiers lead unlimited chocolate tasting.

The Swiss are the biggest consumers of chocolate in the world and there are lots of other chocolate experiences throughout the country. That’s why it’s a perennial top chocolate location.

Take a look at our Switzerland tours and trips to try some for yourself.

Oaxaca, Mexico

Mexico is considered to be the birthplace of chocolate so it’s a must-visit for foodies. Around 4,000 years ago, locals discovered the first cacao plants and the Olmec (the first major civilization in Mexico) turned them into a drink. Later, the Mayans also drank chocolate concoctions, often with water and chilli, and they believed that the gods gifted them chocolate.

The best place to buy chocolate in Mexico now is perhaps Oaxaca, where you’ll never be far away from a chocolate shop or stall. But this is chocolate with a difference as it’s not just about the bars or boxes of treats that you’ll find in other destinations. Specialties to try in the city are a hot chocolate drink either with water or milk and sweetened with sugar, almonds and cinnamon, or a savory mole sauce that can take days to make. You will be able to buy handmade chocolates and bars too.

Delve deeper into the history of chocolate on a Mexico tour .

Saint Lucia, the Caribbean

Fancy staying on a working cacao farm in the rainforest? Popular brand Hotel Chocolat allows you to do just this at its Rabot Hotel in St Lucia. With 25 private lodges, a spa overlooking the UNESCO-listed Piton Mountains, an outdoor restaurant and a bar, it’s a luxurious chocolate lovers’ dream and a top chocolate travel destination. 

Away from your swish accommodations, you’ll be immersed into life on the estate via Project Chocolat’s agri-tourism immersive experience. A tree-to-bar experience includes a rainforest tour of the cacao groves, making your own chocolate bar and more.

To make sure your stay is extra special, there are also chocolate and rum tastings, poolside yoga and a hotel boat to explore the nearby coast and wildlife. Non-hotel guests can book its Project Chocolat experiences, tours and spa treatments, too, so you can dip into Mr. Wonka’s dream hotel for a day.

See Also: Carribean Tours & Trips

Brussels, Belgium

Known as “the capital of chocolate” due to its long history with chocolate making, we reckon Mr. Wonka would have sussed out the competition in Brussels. Its association with the sweet stuff dates back to the 19th century when pharmacist Jean Neuhaus covered medicine in a layer of chocolate to mask its taste for his customers. His grandson went on to replace the medicine with a sweeter filling in 1912 and created the praline before Jean Neuhaus Jr.’s wife, Louise Agostini, invented the ballotin , an elegant gift box to protect the chocolates in 1915. You can still buy Neuhaus chocolates around the world today or snag some pralines and truffles in Brussels.

On your trip to the capital of Belgium, you’ll also be able to visit the Belgian Chocolate Village where you can follow an interactive trail, see chocolate sculptures of famous monuments in Brussels and step into a tropical greenhouse filled with exotic plants connected to the cocoa bean.

If you see yourself as a budding Mr Wonka, there are also a huge selection of chocolate making workshops across the city, as well as chocolate walking tours, chocolate workshops with matched wine or beer and—of course—plenty of places to buy chocolate.

Enjoy an organized adventure in Brussels on one of our tours.

Birmingham, England

Apparently, in his school days, Cadbury sent new products to Roald Dahl and his classmates to taste test before they went on general sale. This is thought to have given the author his love of chocolate, hence his story featuring Charlie, Willy Wonka and the Oompa Loompas. 

So, Cadbury World in Birmingham should be high up on your list of chocolate travel destinations to visit if you’d like to try the confectionary that inspired Dahl. On a trip here, you can watch interactive videos to see how Cadbury brands are made, go on a 4D-adventure on a Crunchie rollercoaster diving into liquid chocolate, travel back in time on a Victorian street to discover where the Cadbury business started, see how Cadbury chocolate used to be made before tasting a sweet treat yourself, and learn about the arrival of chocolate in Europe through a theater presentation.

York is another chocolate-filled destination in England. Terry’s, Craven’s and Rowntree’s chocolate factories were based in this handsome walled city. You can learn about these brands as well as chocolate’s origins in its York’s Chocolate Story attraction.

See some of the best bits of England on a tour.

Cusco, Peru

While Africa is the worldwide leader in chocolate production, the Peruvians have perfected the art of cocoa and craft some of the best chocolate in the world. It’s also said to be the birthplace of the sweet treat. While indigenous communities were the first to cultivate the bean, legend has it the Incas were the first to transform it into something else entirely.

Today, you can expect intense flavors and aromas thanks to 12 major cacao growing regions that are as diverse as they are unique. Head to Cacaosuoyo in the Andes for fruit- and honey-forward dark chocolate. At the Chocolate Museum in nearby Cusco, learn about the history of the decadent dessert, take chocolate cooking classes or embark on a workshop from bean to bar. The country boasts a wealth of culinary tours and organized adventures all around the chocolate bean.

See Also: Peru Tours starting in Cusco

Pennsylvania, USA

You can step into a fun-filled world of candy at Hershey’s Chocolate World in Pennsylvania. On its chocolate factory ride, discover how Hershey’s turned cocoa beans into its sweet creations then head to a train station for an immersive theater experience. You can even create your own candy bar, choosing your own ingredients and designing a wrapper for it.

Still not enough chocolate? You’ll love creating your own one-pound Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup with your own individual additions. Will you choose pretzels, marshmallows, cookie bits or candies? For more entertainment, you can also head out into the town of Hershey on a trolley tour with a charismatic conductor.

Cathy Toogood

Cathy Toogood is an award-winning freelance travel journalist based in Manchester. With more than 10 years’ experience, she writes about travel for The Telegraph, The Times, The Independent and Travel Weekly.

Related Articles

• Food & Drink

Your Guide to Amsterdam’s Secret Bars and Speakeasies

One of the most popular cities in Europe, Amsterdam has no...

• Tips & Tricks

Best Destinations for People with Disabilities

The world and its wonders should be available to one and...

The Seven Most Scenic Train Rides in Europe

Forget planes, buses or automobiles: 2024 is the year of the...

10 Affordable Wellness Retreats in Asia

Get unlimited access to the world's best travel stories. subscribe now., privacy overview.

Lindt’s new Willy Wonka-esque museum is home to the world’s tallest chocolate fountain

Chocolate Museum in Cologne

Germany's Willy Wonka Factory

Christopher Larson / TripSavvy

Lindt Chocolate Museum

Children of all ages can satisfy their sweet tooth in the Schokoladenmuseum (Chocolate Museum) in Cologne . It showcases the 5,000-year long culture of chocolate around the world and is one of the most visited museums in the city .

Founded in 1993, the museum is celebrating its 25th anniversary in October 2018. Over 14 million have been through these delicious doors. If you are lucky enough to visit the museum this year, expect light projections, one-of-a-kind chocolate creations, and special events.

This is a must-see location in the city, so read all about the Chocolate Museum in Cologne and plan a tasty visit.

Attractions in Cologne's Chocolate Museum

Exhibitions

In the museum's massive 4.000 m 2 exhibition, you can learn about the history of chocolate: from the Mayan’s chocolate “drink of the gods” to favorite chocolates in Germany and beyond. There are over 100,000 objects on display.

The Chocolate Cinema provides showings of occasionally awkward, often hilarious, chocolate commercials from 1926 to present. Gaze at the precious 18th and 19th century porcelain that was both a vessel for chocolate and a piece of art depicting its importance.

Stroll through the museum's greenhouse with its live cocoa trees and find out how the cocoa bean becomes a chocolate bar from start to finish in the museum's mini-production unit upstairs. The interactive displays are accessible for all ages and the exhibition texts are, helpfully, in English and German.

Guided Tour

More than 4,500 people take the guided tour each year. This allows chocolate fans to go through the museum gaining insider knowledge of everything chocolate.

Tours are regularly offered in English, French, Dutch and German. Guided tours cost €3.50 + entrance fee.

Besides the standard guided tours, the museum offers tours on special topics, day programs and tours for children.

The Fountain of Chocolate

A highlight for kids - oh, who are we kidding? The highlight for everyone is the massive 10-foot (3-metre) tall chocolate fountain. Coming at the end of the exhibit, visitors are given a wafer freshly dipped from the waterfall of delicious chocolate.

Cafe, Shop, and Market 

If that taster was not enough after all the mouth-watering exhibits, there is also a shop where you can buy an array of German and Swiss chocolate, like those from famed Lindt & Sprüngli, partners in the facility. Around 400 kilos of chocolate are produced here every day and visitors can watch the masters at work. Find unique flavor profiles or make your own bar. You can also get your chocolate personalized with a message or your name. Buy chocolates to satisfy your sweet-tooth for now, an an armload to take home as gifts for your friends and family.

There is also the CHOCOLAT Grand Café with panoramic views of the Rhine River. Hot chocolate appears at its finest, so thick it can hold up a spoon. Pair this with an assortment of cakes, coffees and snacks to bolster your energy beyond the sugar rush.

Cologne's sprawling Christmas markets also extend to in front of the museum from November to December. Charming stands sell handmade crafts, mugs of glühwein and good cheer for free.

Visitor Information for Cologne's Chocolate Museum

• Address : Am Schokoladenmuseum 1, 50678 Cologne
• Website : www.chocolatemuseum-cologne.com
• Location : The futuristic museum complex of steel and glass is located in the newly designed harbor quarter of Rheinauhafen which is walking distance to Cologne's Old Town and cathedral .
• Transport: The closest subway stops are Severinstrasse and Heumarkt . If driving, enter Holzmarkt or Rheinauhafen into the GPS and use the underground parking at Rheinauhafen .

Chocolate Museum Admission

• Adult: 11.50 euros (7.50 euros reduced for students; 10 euros for visitors over 65)
• Groups from 15 persons: 10 euros
• Family Pass (2 adults and kids up to 16 years old): 30 euros
• Children under 6 years old receive free admission
• Free Admission on your birthday

Opening Hours of Cologne's Chocolate Museum

• Monday to Friday: 10:00 - 18:00
• Saturday/Sunday/holidays: 11:00 - 19:00
• Closed during Carnival celebrations , limited opening at Christmas, and from January 8th until Easter the museum is closed on Mondays.
• Note that the production facilities close 30 minutes earlier than the Chocolate Museum and entrance ends an hour before closing time.
• If you are looking for other sensory experiences in Cologne, try the Fragrance Museum or the impressive view from the Cologne Cathedral .

Cologne's Best Museums

Spend the Night at These 10 Museums

The Best Time to Visit Cologne

The Pinakothek Museums in Munich

The Best UNESCO Sites in Germany

The Louvre Museum in Paris: A Complete Guide for Visitors

The 11 Best Museums to Visit in Boston

The Top 11 Things to Do in Stuttgart, Germany

8 of the Best Factory Tours in Germany

16 Best Free Things to Do in Cologne, Germany

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

Texas Hill Country Christmas Lights Trail and Events

Germany Guide: Planning Your Trip

All About the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Paris

Lübeck: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Cologne: The Complete Guide

More From Forbes

Glasgow ‘willy wonka experience’ unites the internet in laughter.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Actor Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka on the set of the film 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory', based ... [+] on the novel by Roald Dahl, 1971. (Photo by Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)

Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory famously ends with Willy Wonka gifting Charlie his titular factory, a place of infinite wonder and possibilities; the two then watch a sad procession of disappointed children exit the factory, permanently altered from their experience.

Something similar seems to have happened in Glasgow, Scotland, with the now-infamous “Willy Wonka Experience.”

What Happened With The Glasgow Willy Wonka Experience?

A “Willy Wonka Experience” was misleadingly advertised with AI-generated imagery that did not remotely resemble the actual location, resulting in some very disappointed children, and gifting the internet a Golden Ticket, sparking many memes.

The official website for the event is still up, and worth browsing, because it highlights exactly what happens when one uses AI to generate pictures and text, without bothering to edit what it spits out.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

The AI-generated imagery is riddled with unsettling “hallucinations,” and the writing is filled with errors and clumsy sentences; one blurb promises “a heart-pounding experience you've never experienced before!”

Not an inaccurate description, according to photos and footage of the dismal event that were posted online.

The woefully disappointing “Willy Wonka Experience” quickly went viral, showing a grim warehouse sparsely decorated with cheap props, inhabited by costumed performers who seem just as baffled as the customers, who reportedly paid £35 per ticket.

Angry parents demanded refunds from the organizers of the event, and even called the police; the event was shut down before the day was done.

Disappointing Willy Wonka Experience Becomes A Meme

Naturally, the internet loved it; the event was described as a “Fyre Festival” for kids.

One would expect the story to flicker and die as the novelty wore off, but details from the experience continued to leak online, and social media users were enamored with the “lore.”

A photo of a glum-looking actress (Kirsty Paterson) dressed as an Oompa-Loompa became the defining image of the event, and inspired many memes.

Paterson told her side of the story to Vulture ; she describes attempting to make the best of things after being underwhelmed by her costume, props and script (which she suspects was AI-generated).

Paterson soon became the hero of the story, as more photos of her earnestly trying to engage with the young visitors leaked online; she really tried her best.

Other performers unfortunate enough to have been roped into the event have shared their stories online — no one had good things to say.

The experience quickly devolved into chaos, with crying children, shouting parents, and a handful of performers who were tasked with entertaining the visitors, encouraged to “improvise” by the organizers of the event.

The disappointment must have been immeasurable. Children were promised a wild ride through Candyland, but were given a handful of jellybeans and a “quarter cup” of lemonade — yes, you read that right.

At one point, there was even a jump scare, for some reason.

‘The Unknown’ Steals The Show

Performer Paul Connell spoke to The Independent about playing the role of Willy Wonka for the event, and described the script he received as “15 pages of AI-generated gibberish.”

Connell went on to describe a sinister character that appears to have been completely fabricated by generative AI, highlighting how the technology doesn’t understand context or tone, making it useless for storytelling.

“The bit that got me was where I had to say, “There is a man we don’t know his name. We know him as the Unknown. This Unknown is an evil chocolate maker who lives in the walls,” Connell said.

The Unknown, of course, does not appear in Dahl’s book, or any of the film adaptations. It was depicted by a performer wearing a shiny Halloween mask, who leaps out from behind a mirror, alarming the children.

“The Unknown” became a fan-favorite among internet commentators, inspiring impressive fan art and creative video edits .

One talented artist even drew the Unknown in the distinctively scratchy style of Quentin Blake, an illustrator who often collaborated with Dahl and has become associated with his stories.

The presence of “the Unknown” summarizes the whole story — a character generated by AI that doesn’t remotely resemble one of Dahl’s creations, awkwardly placed into a Chocolate Factory tour, to frighten confused children.

Dahl was famously a dark storyteller, but tellingly, the AI couldn’t mimic his style at all.

If Dahl were to create a villain for Willy Wonka, it would probably be called something like the “Snuggle-Womper” or the “Grub-Snatcher,” and would be both whimsical and terrifying.

The closest thing the story has to villains (other than Willy Wonka himself) are the children who fall victim to Wonka’s contraptions, and Dahl clearly expects the reader to be greatly amused by their suffering.

In an odd way, Dahl’s twisted vision has been accurately manifested through the Willy Wonka Event, and many commentators made the comparison.

The Willy Wonka Experience United The Internet In Laughter

Disappointed children aside, the event has inspired a great deal of joy, sparking jokes, memes and fan edits of the underwhelming footage.

Many edits utilized footage and screenshots from The Simpsons , always a goldmine for material.

The meme was even folded into the bonkers conspiracy theories surrounding the “missing” Kate Middleton , like a Russian nesting doll for the extremely online.

Some commentators have predicted that the now-iconic event could be adapted into a feature film; others praised the meme for revitalizing X (Twitter), which often feels like a dead mall nowadays.

One person even created a petition , requesting that the “beloved” Willy Wonka Event reopen, so that the masses could experience the event with ironic delight.

The story highlights the perils of misleading customers in the internet age, where everyone is free to post their experiences online, and make an underwhelming event go viral.

It’s also another negative story associated with generative AI, which has racked up an impressive amount of bad press; the technology has led to Taylor Swift deepfake porn , copyright lawsuits , and unleashed a tsunami of bad art , nonsensical writing and fake books on Amazon.

Willy Wonka, as unhinged as he was, would never resort to using such unimaginative technology; all of his horrors were crafted by human hands.

Update: The Unknown has gone mask-off on TikTok , revealing her side of the story and the strange experience of going viral.

The AI-generated villain has proved so wildly popular that a horror movie based on the character, titled The Unknown , has already been announced by Scotland-based film production company Kaledonia Pictures.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

Take a Tour of The Factory!

Children of any age will find a visit to our factory and chocolate museum one sweet trip. the 58,000-square-foot factory and museum is located in south bend, indiana..

Visitors who take the factory tour are treated to a history lesson of chocolate and its origins, as a guide leads guests through all of the factory processes, including panning, enrobing and more, including a test sample at the end. For an extra special treat, you'll dip a chocolate spoon, walk through the Chocolate Museum and receive 10% off your purchase that day.

The Chocolate Museum is home to one of the largest collections of chocolate memorabilia in the world, including a 1,300-year-old Mayan chocolate pot among the hundreds of tins, containers and chocolate boxes of all shapes and sizes. The collection extensively features American chocolate companies.

Inside Scoop Tour

Thank you for your interest in our Factory Tour. Currently tours are free of charge as we have begun the process of moving to our new location! As our guest you will still be able to see the factory in production (Monday – Thursday) however, the Chocolate Museum has moved with limited showcases remaining.

Our new factory and museum location is set to open late Spring 2024 at 7102 Lincolnway West, South Bend. This is the South / West corner of the US 31 Bypass and Lincolnway (US Highway 20). We look forward to seeing you there!

Factory & Museum Tours

Tours are at the top of every hour. Mon – Fri 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Sat 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Closed Sundays & major holidays.

Factory Outlet Store Hours

Mon - Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sat 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Closed Sundays & major holidays

3300 W Sample St South Bend, IN

Email Signup

• Grand Rapids/Muskegon
• Saginaw/Bay City
• All Michigan

Willy Wonka-esque immersive chocolate village coming to Michigan

• Updated: Nov. 06, 2023, 10:15 a.m. |
• Published: Jan. 10, 2023, 9:52 a.m.

"Choco Town," an immersive experience is coming to Oakland Mall in Troy beginning March 16, 2023. (Photo provided by Fever)

• Edward Pevos | [email protected]

TROY, MI - A sweet exhibit is coming to Michigan in 2023 that’s a little Willy Wonka-esque. Get ready for Choco Town at Oakland Mall in Troy. The immersive experience will tempt your taste buds for a limited time beginning March 16.

Tickets go on sale for the Fever -run event on Wednesday, January 11 at 9:00 a.m. and can be purchased here . Choco Town is described as a chocolate village filled with delicious interactive elements including taste-testing and games.

Visitors can expect chocolate houses and fountains, chocolate-chip rain, a Cotton Candy Salon and banana-split swings as they make their way to the Choco Town square where they will come across all kinds of photo ops and be able to indulge in chocolate samples.

“I can’t sugar-coat it. We’re really excited to bring Choco Town to the Metro Detroit area. It’s one of the most delicious, fun and Instagram-able experiences our guests will have this year – fully immersive and something they’ll never forget,” said Mary Fuhrman, Associate Producer, Fever. “A journey through this sweet village isn’t just something conjured in a dream. Visitors of Choco Town will marvel at the level of creativity and the intricate details put into it on every level.”

Metro Detroit will be the second place in the U.S. to experience Choco Town with Boston being the first in 2022.

All ages are welcome inside Choco Town. Kids under three are free. Minors under the age of 16 will not be allowed inside without a parent or guardian. Visits typically average 60 to 90 minutes.

MORE FROM MLIVE :

Detroit Youth Choir gets ‘AGT: All Stars’ Golden Buzzer, brings Simon Cowell to tears

All of the big concerts announced for Michigan in 2023 so far

Historic Michigan home on market looks like something out of ‘Game of Thrones’

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Morning Rundown: Bodycam video released of alleged wrong-door airman shooting, a push to expand IVF in the military, and politics could drown out pop at Eurovision

Viral Glasgow Willy Wonka 'Chocolate Experience' inspires Los Angeles event

LOS ANGELES — Two months after a Willy Wonka-inspired “Chocolate Experience” in Scotland failed so spectacularly that it cemented itself in internet meme history, a similar event in Los Angeles attracted dozens of people hoping to take part in a re-creation of the absurd experience.

The original event in Glasgow, Scotland, had promised ticket buyers an immersive candy wonderland only to deliver a sparsely decorated warehouse. Faced with a crowd of crying children and shouting parents, the Fyre Fest -like event shuttered just halfway through the day.

"Willy’s Chocolate Experience LA"— organized by a collective of local artists unaffiliated with those behind the Glasgow event — had a similar vibe. This time, however, attendees knew what they were signing up for.

Held in a worn-down warehouse embellished with a few candy cane props, the one-night only pop-up event stayed true to the underwhelming decor of the Glasgow event, complete with artificial intelligence-generated art. Attendees were even offered two complimentary jellybeans, just like in Glasgow.

Scottish actor Kirsty Paterson — who became known as “ Meth Lab Oompa Loompa ” — was a key participant in the event. Also present was a local actor donning the persona of “The Unknown” — the random and slightly unsettling masked character who went viral for scaring the children who attended.

This Los Angeles experience, however, was not catered to children. Attendees, who paid $44 per ticket, mingled and laughed with one another as they consumed THC-infused cotton candy, Oompa Loompa-themed cocktails and some not-so-PG on-stage performances.

The event also included a local touch by featuring food vendors, musicians and actors from the Los Angeles area, as well as a four-seat cinema trailer in which attendees could screen silent films.

Event organizers said they intend to donate the proceeds from Sunday’s experience to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Paterson, who went viral after a photo of her looking miserable at the Glasgow experience became a meme format, said she was excited to travel to Los Angeles to play the iconic knock-off Oompa Loompa role once again.

“The opportunities I’m getting from this are life-changing outside Oompa Loompa and the costume,” Paterson said. “I mean, I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome.”

During the event, Paterson took the stage for an audience Q&A and emceed an array of performances — including a skit and dance number by two chocolate-covered Oompa Loompas — after posing for photos with her newfound fans.

Jacob Alpharad, 28, was among the attendees who showed up to see Paterson.

“I don’t think there’s any celebrity I could meet that would impress my friends more than her specifically,” Alpharad said. “I was just happy to be born at the same time as [the Glasgow event]. It sounds like a skit right out of a sitcom.”

Amanda Silver, 21, said she came for the laughs after seeing all the buzz online around what happened in Glasgow.

“My parents were very confused. I couldn’t explain it to them. I was like, ‘It’s a meme,’” Silver said. “They were like, ‘It’s $44.’ And I was like, ‘I’m going.’ I would pay an infinite amount of money to see that.”

Angela Yang is a culture and trends reporter for NBC News.

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

The Los Angeles edition of the Willy Wonka Experience was an absurdist fever dream

Olivia hebert visits los angeles’ own ironic spin on glasgow’s highly memed willy wonka experience, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more

Thanks for signing up to the lessons in lifestyle email.

S tanding outside a graffitied warehouse in Los Angeles ’ Arts District, I didn’t know what to expect from a recreation of Glasgow’s disastrous Willy Wonka event . I had heard a lot about the bungled children’s experience, which included AI-generated characters, sparse and low-budget sets and costuming, and a sad Oompa Loompa who had become somewhat of a local celebrity since the event . Unlike what happened in Glasgow , this event was primarily marketed to grown adults, capitalising off of the meme and turning it into… well an incredibly meta and campy display of performance art.

Me and my fellow attendees were greeted with a spoof of the original Roald Dahl character, Grandpa Joe, bedridden on what seemed to be a heavy duty shopping trolley from Costco and resting against a cardboard headboard. He was wheeled out to the gate, crying out improvised phrases while wielding an unlit candle. Giggles erupted in the small group that had arrived early for the one-day event, setting the tone for what was to come. Other characters included Mr Wonka himself, discernable only by his top hat and nothing else, who ushered the guests inside.

As we were guided to the entrance, we were met with the googly-eyed, blue-haired Oompa Loompa, who was managing a slapdash, DIY lab that included a few lab tubes and tools which he described in gibberish, as well as a ginormous bong that the Oompa Loompa referred to as Mr Wonka’s “personal meditation device”. As he dabbled with vinegar and liquid nitrogen, attendees were offered free cotton candy imbued with drops of THC by an uncostumed local vendor.

In contrast to direct replicas of the original’s sparse set, from the purple arch to the mushroom stools, the THC cotton candy was one of many new additions scattered throughout the experience, marking a departure from the direct homages to the Glasgow version. In this Los Angeles iteration, gone were the crying children, and in their place were slightly high, happy adults who took in the ridiculousness with a passionfruit mezcal in one hand as they recorded the chaos with their smartphones in the other. Attendees were also offered Modelos and Mexican sodas as well as alcoholic white chocolate thai iced teas with dollops of green whipped cream, a reference to the green hair and orange skin of the Oompa Loompas.

Not only that, but jellybeans were offered in abundance this time around in small paper cups, with some knocking them back like they were shots. The ample amounts of candy were a stark contrast to the original Glasgow experience, where each child was given just one jelly bean as supplies dwindled. A delicious fish taco vendor truck catered the event, and inside there were also themed pastries from a local baker.

In terms of art offerings, you could also watch movies like Alice in Wonderland via tiny reels of film in a tiny cinema on wheels. Los Angeles artist Molly Balloons also arranged a balloon art installation in a technicolour polycule that looked more at home at a Museum of Ice Cream pop-up than at a Willy Wonka spoof. Nonetheless, it was gorgeous to take pictures against, and who was I to resist a photo opp.

The characters remained mostly similar to the original, including the Unknown - the AI-generated character that sparked backlash, confusion, and most of all tears - who whisked around the room in its Death Eater-esque mask and billowing black cloak carrying around a mirror. Meanwhile, Meaghan, a newly AI-generated character specific to the LA event, according to a script obtained by The Independent , warned attendees not to look at him or say his name three times - as if he was the second-coming of Bloody Mary.

As the event wore on, more characters turned up, including two Black actors dressed as Oompa Loompas from a comedy duo named Clowns of Colour, who walked around the room carrying signs demanding “reparations” for their thousands of years of chocolate making. Later on in the night, the pair took the stage to rub chocolate on each other’s faces and dance to Michael Jackson.

Another cast member who showed up later was “Swoly Wonka,” Mr Wonka’s self-described bodyguard, who carried around a large, heavy paddle. He later lost his shirt and stole his boss’s tophat, flexing his biceps that bore the words “Swoly Wonka” in what seemed to be Sharpie.

The self-described bodyguard was played by fitness influencer Thomas Ashman, who would later tell The Independent that he had just driven seven hours from Scottsdale, dead tired, to perform at this event. I’d come to find out that, like many of the performers, he’d been recruited by a friend of a friend, joining the likes of fellow burgeoning actors, many of who have the pedigree of playing characters at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights.

Multiple crowd goers either attended “for the bit” as fans of the meme or found out about the event through TikTok.

“Today, my roommate found out about the event through TikTok,” an attendee named Mandy said. “We bought tickets immediately.”

Of the experience, she added: “I would have paid a million to be here so I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”

A couple named Jesse and Tori were at first more skeptical of the experience, but planned on seeing the experience through. Jesse said: “We’re just going to see how it all unfolds.”

Later on in the night, I approached them as they were grooving to DJ Tipsy’s set, and they noted that the last few acts had definitely won them over. “This is fantastic!” Tori exclaimed.

Keith - who showed up in a cybernetic Daft Punk mask and noted that he was eager to attend after having built a Lego model of the Wonka Glasgow meme - said that the LA event was the next frontier of entertainment.

“This is the new field of s***show tourism as people call it,” he said. “Next thing you know it’s gonna franchise and be gonna be going all around the country, all over the world.”

Despite these creative liberties catering to the predominantly adult crowd - I spotted one child throughout the entire evening - it was clear that event organiser House of Illuminati LA was in earnest intent on paying homage to the improvisational essence of the original. They even flew out the original sad Oompa Loompa, Kirsty Paterson, for the event. Kirsty briefly spoke to The Independent about how the Glasgow event seemingly turned her life upside down.

“I never thought I would become a meme,” she admitted. “I never thought such a rubbish event would end up me becoming a global meme.”

She added that since the event has taken on a life of its own, she’s been on a wild ride.

“It’s a dream come true because I was a struggling actor,” she said. “So for me to actually end up in LA and meeting the people that I’ve been meeting, it’s been completely life changing.”

Throughout the night, Kirsty spoke with attendees, signed autographs and took pictures with them. Shortly after a set by a series of raucous performers - including a standup set about the dangers of AI and drugs from Robert Dayton, music from self-described funk wizard Chaki and a Lynchian DJ set from Tipsy - Kirsty answered any and all questions from the crowd.

“I’m not gonna lie, I actually f***ing love it here,” she said, when asked how she was liking Los Angeles so far. She added that the positivity and energy was vastly different from her experience in Glasgow, later noting that despite how horrible the Glasgow event was, it was nice to be a part of something that sparked joy rather than tears.

A spokesperson for House of Illuminati voiced similar sentiments.

“I think the difference is we’re appealing to the audience that understands this kind of art,” the spokesperson said, noting that the LA event was sold exactly as it was unlike its predecessor. “Everybody knows what they’re expecting.”

They added: “Taking what happened in Glasgow, which upset a lot of people, and flipping that on its head and turning it into a positive thing is a great thing.”

The original experience had been advertised to children and has since been dubbed a scam , eventually becoming a meme in the global cultural zeitgeist. The event leaned into the absurdity of the original, owning the horrendous set design and off-putting AI characters, and milking it for laughs. While some affected by the original event may consider it in poor taste, those who attended the second iteration embraced the hilarity of the chaos, sipping their cocktails as they either watched the actors shout at passersby or kicked about an inflatable eyeball in amusement.

Some dressed up like characters from the original novel like Violet Beauregarde or donned their own twist on Oompa Loompa core. People revelled in the zaniness of the night, marvelling at the latest oddity as it emerged from the woodwork, and indulged in a world full of pure imagination… or at least something loosely resembling it.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

The Choco-Story Experience

the history of chocolate

Dive into the wonderful world of chocolate for a incredible travel through the ages !

experience tour

Visiting a museum that combines collections and interactive and digital entertainment ? Yes you can !

our virtual chocolatiers

3 chocolatiers, 2 Best Workers of France will show you all the techniques and skills to make chocolate !

And you will taste their creations !

all you can eat !

Choco-expert who can describe hidden flavours of origin chocolates? Or just chocolate lover to try all the chocolates ?

>>>

for the whole family

A playful tour for kids is available to have little brothers and sisters to discover the world of chocolate… with FUN !

art with chocolate

3m height, 200kg chocolate for a more realistic sculpture than the building itself! Discover the area dedicated to whatever you could imagine with chocolate !

the most famous fans

Who are the famous chocolate-lover celebrities? Find out who left their mark in our Wall of Fame!

your own chocolates

Join one of our worshops for kids or adults to make your chocolates! Reveal the choco-power in you!

Chocolate Museum

Full motion.

with pictures

Directions & hours.

& directions

28 Boulevard de Bonne Nouvelle, 75010 Paris +33 01 42 29 68 60 [email protected]

Opening hours

Open every day from 10 am to 6 pm (last admission at 5 pm)

Visit is 60 to 90 minutes

Yearly closures : 1 Jamuary and 25 December

your tickets

Buy your tickets

LEARN everything

About chocolate.

Discover the evolution of chocolate through history from more than 4.000 years, its secrets, medicine purpose, well everything about chocolate !

• Terms of use

Choco Story

• Our partners
• Contact Form
• Colmar – France
• Bruges – Belgium
• Brussels – Belgium
• Praha – Czech Republic

Forgot Password

Eco Lodges Anywhere

15 Iconic Sights Every Soccer Fan Should Visit in UEFA 2024 Cities

Posted: May 10, 2024 | Last updated: May 10, 2024

The 2024 UEFA European Football Championship is just a month away, so most soccer fans are already planning their itineraries. Now, while the ten cities hosting UEFA 2024 will be jam-packed with fans, you can do some things without running into a soccer fan. Here are some of the most incredible sights and activities you must do when visiting UEFA Cities:

Main Tower, Frankfurt

The Main Tower is a popular tourist attraction that offers panoramic views of the city skyline from its observation deck. Visitors can take an elevator ride to the top of the tower and enjoy breathtaking views of Frankfurt and the surrounding area. It’s a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of the city and capture some memorable photos.

Dortmund U-Tower, Dortmund

Dortmund Tower can be spotted from a distance because of the distinct U alphabet that glows brightly at night. Dortmund U-Tower is an excellent fit for soccer fans for just one reason: it’s an old brewery still whipping out some fantastic beverages. It’s also a center for arts and creativity, while Museum Ostwall attracts its fair share of visitors.

Völkerschlachtdenkmal, Leipzig

Völkerschlachtdenkmal, or the Monuments to the Battle of the Nations, is dedicated to the infamous Battle of Leipzig in 1813. Völkerschlachtdenkmal commemorates Napoleon’s defeat and details the battle’s history. The monument is 91 meters tall and has a viewing platform, reachable once you cross the 500 steps. It is one of Germany’s best and only examples of Wilhelmine architecture.

Zoom Erlebniswelt, Gelsenkirchen

If you’re a naturalist at heart, you’ll love Zoom Erlebniswelt, a zoological garden with one of the most technologically advanced exhibits. Zoom gardens replicate natural sanctuaries worldwide, allowing tourists to experience wildlife and nature as is. Zoom’s Asian hall features flying foxes, grey langurs, orangutans, and a variety of Asian orchids and palm trees. It also contains a section reserved for Siberian tigers, Bactrian camels, and others, like crested partridge, red-whiskered bulbul, and the Chinese water dragon.

Brandenburg Gate, Berlin

Berlin’s edgy art scenes, historic Berlin Wall, and modern landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate captivate those looking to capture a piece of Germany.

Rheinturm, Dusseldorf

The Rheinturm or Rhine Tower may not look that attractive from a distance. But a step inside, and you’ll be blown away. The Rhine Tower is a 240.5 meters high telecommunications center, but its most famous attraction is QOMO, a restaurant sitting atop the tower at 172.5 meters. It is the highest restaurant in the area and has 144 seats, all rotating around the restaurant’s axis, allowing eaters to get a 360° view from above. Its viewing platform is also a great way to get a bird’s eye look at the city.

Olympiapark, Munich

Olympiapark has a fascinating history. Initially built to host the 1972 Summer Olympics, it has since become one of Germany’s most popular sports-hosting destinations. Olympiapark is a popular venue for social and religious events, but it also hosts many sports matches and related events. Olympiapark even has a carillon, making it an excellent destination for soccer fans with an eye (or ear) for music. The Olympic Tower, BMW buildings, and Olympic Stadium are among the most popular attractions in and around Olympiapark.

German Football Museum, Dortmund

The German Football Museum in Dortmund is a paradise for football enthusiasts! It’s filled with exhibits showcasing the rich history and culture of football in Germany. From iconic jerseys and trophies to interactive displays that let you experience the excitement of the game, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about football.

Porsche Museum in Stuttgart

Every car lover will delight at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart, reconstructed in 2009. The original Porsche Museum, which opened in 1976, stood on a small road along the Porsche Factory, so the Porsche Museum was inherently designed to feature all of Porsche’s ingenuity in front of spectators. The Porsche Museum’s rolling design is unique; its rotating exhibits include 300 restored cars, some even drivable.

Cologne Cathedral, Cologne

Towering 157 meters, Cologne Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is a Gothic basilica with five aisles, all dramatically towering high and imposing a daunting look. Despite its intimidating exterior, Cologne Cathedral is home to some of Germany’s finest and most delicate interiors, giving tourists an insight into ancient architecture. It’s also one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in Europe, making it one of the most significant cathedrals on the continent.

Miniatur Wunderland, Hamburg

Constantly ranked as one of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations, Miniatur Wunderland is the world’s most extensive model railway system. The miniature railway system boasts about 1120 trains, all controlled digitally and more than 10,000 wagons overall. Miniatur Wunderland also has the world’s largest miniature airport, with exact replicas of famous aircraft worldwide.

Mercedes-Benz Museum, Stuttgart

With more than 1500 exhibits on display, Stuttgart’s Mercedes-Benz Museum gives the local Porsche Museum great competition, which means you can explore the car industry at its finest. The Mercedes-Benz Museum takes tourists through its 135-year history, detailing how it began and exploring various mechanisms behind popular vehicles. The museum celebrates the icon Carl Benz and is a delight for all car lovers.

Sachsenhausen, Frankfurt

Sachsenhausen is a historic neighborhood in Frankfurt, perfect for soccer fans who want a break from all the chaos and riveting matches. Its cobblestone streets are lined with fun bars, cafes, and an old town. But what truly makes it unique is the Museumsurfer, a landscape of multiple museums that allow tourists to explore architecture, film, fine arts, and Jewish history. 

Lindt Chocolate Museum, Cologne

If you like Swiss chocolate but can’t visit Switzerland, visit the Lindt Chocolate Museum in Cologne, open to tourists throughout the day. At the Lindt Chocolate Museum, you can learn about the history of chocolate-making and how Lindt got into the game. The tour takes roughly 2-3 minutes and even involves sampling cocoa beans and chocolates. There’s even a create-your-own chocolate section to channel your inner Willy Wonka and bag your creation.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Munich

Dating back to the 19th century, Neuschwanstein Castle lies on the foothills of the Alps near Austria, overlooking some of the world’s most gorgeous scenery. It is one of the few remaining places in Germany with a Romantic style, featuring intricate turrets and sturdy walls. The Castle is believed to be the inspiration behind the King’s Castle in Disney’s Cinderella, so you can imagine how pretty it is.

15 European Architectural Marvels That Amaze Americans

How to Get a Free Pass in Europe’s Best Museums

More for You

Trump lashes out at Paul Ryan after ex-House speaker declares he ‘lacks character’ for being president

Housing has hit rock bottom, says Redfin CEO Glenn Kelman

The health condition many women are developing after COVID

10 best new Netflix originals you need to add to your watch list

Ukrainian M2A2 Bradley Takes Out Russian T-80 Tank in Video

56 Meatball Recipes That Go Beyond Basic Spaghetti

The Vinegar Solution That Can Wipe Out Stink Bugs In A Pinch

An AI Photo of Katy Perry at the Met Went Viral and Fooled Everyone

Skip Starbucks—Our Homemade Cake Pops Are So Easy To Make

‘Worst’ Netflix film of 2024 tops chart with 7 million views in three days

This Pinterest-worthy tiny home can run completely off the grid — and it costs almost nothing to maintain

20 top travel destinations for epic marine life

Here's How to Get Rid of Ants in Your Home and Yard for Good

6 OTC Drugs That Can Be Dangerous for Older Adults

Judge Engoron Faces Questions After Lawyer Says He Advised on Trump Case

Taylor Sheridan Series Gets Renewed at Paramount+ With New Title

Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study

Here's How To Boil Cabbage Perfectly Every Time

Pokemon: 10 Largest Legendaries

The 25 best multiple-guitar bands

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

Aspire! Conservatory to have production of ‘Willy Wonka Jr.’

Published 12:00 am Saturday, May 4, 2024

By Staff Reports

RACELAND, Ky. — Aspire! Conservatory’s TheatreWorks program will transport the audience to a “world of pure imagination” with their production of “Willy Wonka Jr.”, a musical based on Roald Dahl’s timeless children’s book ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.’

Performances began Friday and will continue at 7 p.m. today and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday at Raceland High School.

The cast of more than 50 young actors will delight audiences of all ages, as they portray the story of the world-famous candy man, Willy Wonka, who announces that he will offer the tour of the lifetime through his secret chocolate factory to five children who find a golden ticket in one of his world-famous candy bars.  

Email newsletter signup

The key message of the story, however, is the importance of good character.  

In addition to the magical and imaginative journey inside Wonka’s Chocolate Factory with Charlie, the audience will encounter marvelous sights and tastes in the theatre lobby, including Wonka bars, fizzy lifting drinks, gobstoppers, fluffy cotton candy and more.  

Tickets are available at https://www.aspireconservatory.com/theatre-tickets/ or at the door.

More Lifestyles

Providing opportunities

Doug Johnson: Love can be lovely, but our actions speak loudly

Danny Tyree: What’s in a city’s name? A whole lot

Celebrating and thankful

Do you plan on attending this year’s Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day parade?

View Results

Special Sections

• Classifieds
• Small Business
• Submit a News Tip
• Submit a Photo
• Engagement Announcement
• Wedding Announcement
• Submit A Classified Advertisement
• Submit a Letter to the Editor
• © 2024, The Tribune