Registration Open for the 2026 Tofino Hot Cocoa Trail
Registration is now open for the 2026 Tofino Hot Cocoa Trail.
Showcase your signature hot chocolate and be featured in Tourism Tofino's winter marketing campaign.
As storm season approaches and cozy season settles over the coast, we're excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Tofino Hot Cocoa Trail.
Returning November 20, 2026 through January 2, 2027, the Trail invites visitors and locals alike to explore Tofino's food and beverage community one cozy cup at a time.
More than a seasonal promotion, the Hot Cocoa Trail is an opportunity to showcase your business as part of one of Tofino's winter experiences. Whether you're offering a signature hot chocolate that's been on your menu for years or creating something new for the season, we'd love to feature it.
One of the things we love most about the Trail is the opportunity to tell the stories behind the drinks. Sometimes it's a creative recipe. Sometimes it's a family favourite. Sometimes it's simply the people, atmosphere, and hospitality that make guests return year after year.
Why Participate?
Participating businesses will be featured through:
- Tourism Tofino's website, social channels, and winter marketing initiatives
- The Bandwango digital passport, which directs participants to Trail locations throughout the event
- Consumer giveaways and promotional campaigns that encourage exploration and repeat visits
- Advertising and editorial opportunities through the Tofino Times, Westerly News, and Tuff City Radio
- Recommendations from Tourism Tofino's Visitor Centre team, connecting visitors directly with participating businesses
- Potential photo and video content creation to support storytelling and future marketing efforts
How Bandwango Works
This year, the Trail will once again be powered by Bandwango.
Participants sign up for the Hot Cocoa Trail passport and check in at participating businesses throughout the season. As they collect points, they're encouraged to visit multiple locations, discover new favourites, and qualify for prizes.
The Trail helps create additional reasons for visitors and residents to explore local businesses throughout the winter months while encouraging repeat visitation across the destination.
Social Media Giveaway
Help Create the Ultimate Hot Cocoa Trail Prize Pack
We're inviting participating businesses to contribute prizes to this year's Hot Cocoa Trail giveaway.
In return, contributing businesses will receive additional exposure through giveaway promotion across Tourism Tofino's social media channels. The giveaway is designed to generate excitement, encourage participation in the Trail, and introduce audiences to the incredible businesses that make Tofino's winter season so special.
Key Dates
October 20, 2026
Submission deadline
Mid-November
Hot Cocoa Trail giveaway launches
November 20, 2026
Tofino Hot Cocoa Trail begins
January 2, 2027
Trail concludes
Ready to Participate?
Tourism Tofino food and drink members are invited to submit up to two featured hot chocolates.