On Feb. 27, AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) presented its annual World of Chocolate at Artifacts Events, continuing a tradition of fundraising, HIV activism and chocolate—lots and lots of chocolate.
This 2026 edition featured 14 chocolatiers and chefs in contention for awards, along with fundraising opportunities that included a balloon drop, an online art auction, a silent auction and a punchboard with hidden prizes, with vintage ‘70s disco beats provided by DJ Onwa.
The House of Paint performed at the end of the evening. AFC raised over $40,000 from the event.
AFC CEO and President John Peller said in his remarks, “This has been a challenging year fighting back and pushing forward under the Trump administration, and it is truly a source of strength, courage, and hope that you are all standing with us. Together we are building a world where people living with HIV will thrive.”
After his opening remarks Peller introduced Yusef Garcia, the new board chair for AFC. Garcia said, “This event has been ongoing for 27 years, and over that time has raised over $7 million for people living with HIV through the services of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Because of people like you, tonight we will continue the proud tradition of gathering with joy and generosity to fortify our cause and community.”
He added, “This year we have seen unprecedented attacks on our communities from a hostile federal government. AFC has fought back and kept pushing forward…and it is thanks to the strength of our community that we are not only resilient, but powerful.”
Yusef Garcia left, and John Peller present Katherine Anne Confection with the best sweet award. Photo by Vern Hester
In the awards, Katherine Anne Confections took home the prize for Best Sweet, with Chef Dan McGee and Swissotel grabbing the Best Savory award. Chef Enrique Cortes brought up his jolly crew to accept the Best Libation award, with Al’s Cookie Mix taking the prize for Best Small Business. Hotel Chocolat took home the ‘Best Large Business’ award, with Chef Blaque of Steel City Bakery receiving a strong ovation with The People’s Choice award.
Other organizations who presented during the competition included Kilwins, House of Harvey, Chocolat Uzma, Blackout Baking Company, Daddy Long Legs of DNA Haus, Amy’s Candy Bar, Zeeshan Shah and Yoshi Yamada of Superkhana International, Vanille Patisserie, Uncle Nearest Whiskey and 606 Coffee Roasters.
