Kids can explore the fascinating world of chocolate from bean to bar in Chantilly, Virginia. This hands-on workshop combines creativity and education, making it a perfect family-friendly adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for children aged 4 and up.
Wildlife
History
Chantilly is known for its Civil War history and hosts the annual Chantilly Air Show, adding cultural depth to your visit.
Conservation
The workshop emphasizes sustainable cacao sourcing and promotes environmental awareness among young learners.
River-Sea Chocolates
Kids can explore the fascinating world of chocolate from bean to bar in Chantilly, Virginia. This hands-on workshop combines creativity and education, making it a perfect family-friendly adventure.
River-Sea Chocolates is a bean-to-bar chocolatier and experiential chocolate studio based in Chantilly, Virginia. Founded and led by Mariano D’Aguiar, the company operates a small factory that couples artisan chocolate production with public and private experiences.
Guests can choose from a variety of offerings that blend hands-on craft with tasting education: decorating milk chocolate bars with natural toppings like rose petals and spices, creating chocolate bombs, sampling craft chocolate flights, or joining a guided virtual tasting hosted by the founder. Several experiences include educational elements that explain the bean-to-bar process and chocolate flavor notes, and some invite visitors into the production room to observe how bars are made.
River-Sea Chocolates accommodates small-group sessions — Chocolate Bomb Making lists capacity for up to six people — and offers options suitable for celebrations, private events, and family-friendly programs. Select experiences pair artisan chocolate with sustainable wines or recommended wine pairings.
Virtual Chocolate Tasting sessions deliver five artisan mini bars and palate-cleansing crackers and are led by Mariano D’Aguiar, providing an accessible remote tasting format. River-Sea is featured on The Adventure Collective and presents fact-based instruction, guided tasting notes, and hands-on crafting for guests seeking memorable chocolate-centered events.
Location
Chantilly, VA
Local artisan chocolate factory
Founder
Mariano D'Aguiar
Leads tastings and virtual events
Tours Offered
8 experiences
Workshops, tastings, private & virtual
Group Size
Up to 6
Chocolate Bomb Making accommodates six
Choose a tasting, workshop, or private event—book in-person or virtual sessions led by experienced guides and the founder.
Book in advance
Workshops fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so reserve your spot early to avoid disappointment.
Wear clothes you don't mind getting a bit messy
Chocolate making can be hands-on and a little messy—dress your kids accordingly for a fun experience.
Arrive 15 minutes early
Arriving a bit early ensures you have time to settle in and receive safety and hygiene instructions before starting.
Check for allergy info
Confirm beforehand that the workshop accommodates common food allergies or sensitivities to keep kids safe.
Comfortable casual clothes
Kids should wear comfortable clothes that can handle interactive, hands-on activities.
Apron or smock
An apron or smock helps protect clothing during chocolate handling but is usually provided.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the workshop, especially for longer sessions or warm days.
Snack for after
Bring a light snack for kids after the session to keep energy levels up during the day.