The seventh annual Choctoberfest will take place on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in ChocolateTown Square, at the corners of Chocolate and Cocoa avenues. This free family festival is organized by the Downtown Hershey Association and will feature live bands, beer, and food, including plenty of chocolate.

Food and drink will be available to purchase from three dozen vendors. Food vendors include The Chocolate Avenue Grille, Smoked Bar & Grill, Devon Seafood & Steak, Houlihan's and Soulfully Famous. Beverage vendors include Tröegs Independent Brewing, Englewood Brewing, Hidden Still Spirits and Boneshire Brew Works. Guests will also be able to pair their favorite Hershey's candy with the beer available for purchase.

In addition, several specialty crafts will be on sale from area artisans. Children's activities, including Skee-Ball, cornhole, and inflatable axe throwing, will also be available. Musical performers will include The Bad Toupees, Blitz Dynette, and Corinna Joy Band.

Guests may also participate in the second annual chocolate cake baking contest, judged by local culinary experts and the public. Prizes will be awarded for both categories of judging. Cakes must arrive at ChocolateTown Square Park no later than 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 15. Judging will begin promptly at 11 a.m., and winners will be announced at 3 p.m. There is an entry fee; for information on making a payment, visit http://www.downtownhershey.com.

For more information and to volunteer to help with the event, visit the aforementioned website.