Transparency Note: We take our cocoa percentage very seriously. This post helps you celebrate! It contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy through them, I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly love.

The holiday season is over. Valentine's Day is still two weeks away. You are in the "Chocolate Limbo."

But this Sunday, February 1, we have a bridge to get you through.

It is National Dark Chocolate Day.

This isn't about the sugary milk chocolate rabbits you eat in April. This is about the sophisticated, intense, antioxidant-rich stuff that actually counts as a "superfood" (if you squint).

Manny (our resident penguin) finds 85% cocoa a bit bitter, but he respects the antioxidants.

Here is how to celebrate the darker side of dessert.

Why We Celebrate: The "Healthy" Treat

Dark chocolate isn't just candy; it’s history.

For thousands of years, the Mayans drank chocolate as a bitter, spicy tonic. It wasn't until Europeans added milk and sugar that it became "candy."

• The Science: To be considered "Dark," it usually needs over 50% cocoa solids. The higher the percentage, the less sugar and the more flavonoids (which are good for your heart!).

• The Rule: If it doesn't snap when you break it, it’s not real dark chocolate.

The Big Why: We celebrate because life is bitter-sweet, and sometimes you need a snack that matches the mood.

3 Ways to Make Today Memorable

1. The "Tasting Flight" (The Experience)

Treat chocolate like wine.

• The Move: Host a "Blind Tasting" for your family after dinner.

• The Amazon Find: GHIRARDELLI Dark Chocolate SQUARES Assortment

• The Game: Blindfold everyone and have them guess the percentage. It turns dessert into a sensory game.

• Get the GHIRARDELLI Dark Chocolate SQUARES Assortment on Amazon 

2. The "Hot & Spicy" Drink (The History)

Go back to the Mayan roots.

• The Move: Mexican Hot Chocolate.

• The Amazon Find: Abuelita Authentic Mexican Hot Chocolate Tablets. These aren't powder; they are solid tablets of stone-ground cocoa, cinnamon, and sugar that you melt into milk.

• The Upgrade: Use a traditional Wooden Molinillo Whisk. You spin it between your hands to froth the chocolate. It makes the drink feel ancient and special.

• Shop Abuelita Chocolate Tablets on Amazon 

3. The "Zen" Moment (The Self-Care)

If you don't want to eat the calories, soak in them.

• The Move: A Chocolate Bath.

• The Amazon Find:  Petitfee Cacao Energizing Hydrogel Face Mask  Okay, it’s a face mask, not a bath bomb, but cocoa is amazing for your skin. It hydrates and firms. Put this on, eat a square of 70%, and lock the bathroom door for 20 minutes.

• Get the Cacao Face Mask on Amazon 

The Perfect Gift for the Chocoholic

If you know someone who keeps a stash of "Mom's Chocolate" hidden in the vegetable drawer, give them a better hiding spot.

Our Editors' Pick:

The "Break In Case of Emergency" Shadow Box

Why we love it: It’s a funny piece of decor that you can fill with their favorite high-end bars. It looks great on a kitchen shelf, and let’s be honest—February is an emergency.

Perfect for: The friend who needs a laugh (and a sugar rush).

Shop Shadow Box Frames on Amazon 

Join the Conversation

We need to know your limit.

What is the perfect cocoa percentage?

(Is 70% the sweet spot? Or are you a hardcore 90% fan?)

Cast your vote in the comments on Instagram or TikTok and tag us @OnManyOccasions!

Don't Miss the Next Celebration

February is here! Do you know when Groundhog Day is? (It’s literally tomorrow!).

Download our Free 2026 Celebration Calendar and never miss a sweet excuse to party.