Chocolate: The Exhibition Opens

Sounds deliciously interesting to us! Chocolate: The Exhibition opens at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science on FRI 2/12 and is included with museum admission. The exhibit will run through Sunday, May 8th.

More info: http://www.dmns.org/chocolate-the-exhibition/

EXHIBITION FEATURES (From the DMNS Website):

TROPICAL RAINFOREST

Enter a lush tropical rainforest and see a replica of a cacao tree. Learn about the complex ecosystem that supports the healthy growth of the remarkable Theobroma cacao, the tiny midges that pollinate it, and the birds that make homes in its branches.

ANCIENT MAYA

See how sculptures and carved vessels, and chemical residue in pots helped scientists trace the roots of chocolate to the ancient Maya, the first people to turn the bitter seeds into a spicy drink for ceremonies and trade.

AZTEC MARKETPLACE

Cacao was key to the vast empire of the Aztec people—as a luxury drink for the elite, an offering to the gods, payment to rulers, and money in the marketplace. Barter for precious cacao seeds in an interactive Aztec market experience.

CHOCOLATE COMES TO EUROPE

The Spaniards’ arrival in the Americas introduced chocolate to Europe. Learn what happened when chocolate met sugar. See how the growing demand for chocolate by wealthy Europeans created a toll paid by enslaved peoples toiling on sugar and cacao plantations.

CHOCOLATE MANUFACTURING

Take a look at the sweet side of the Industrial Revolution and the steady stream of new inventions and creative advertising that brought chocolate bars to the masses. Explore tools and techniques used for processing chocolate and creating delicious treats.

CHOCOLATE AS A GLOBAL COMMODITY

Explore the relationship between growing, selling, and consuming cacao. Trace its ups and downs in the world market, and see how cacao is harvested, prepared, and shipped. Find out what farmers are doing to preserve their crops, their income, and the rainforest.

CHOCOLATE TODAY

Find out how people around the world cook with it, eat and drink it, and use it in holiday celebrations. Learn about the myths and realities of chocolate’s effect on health. Discover your “chocolate personality” with a fun game. Wrap up your experience by shopping for chocolate treats and goodies!