Chocolatefest Celebration begins for a community who needs it the most

BURLINGTON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Last summer, Burlington was hit hard by flooding and some people there are still trying to repair damage to their homes.

This year, it's a different story. Thousands will be outside enjoying the sun at the annual Burlington Chocolate Fest. 

Whether you want to stuff chocolate in your mouth or enjoy one of the hottest weekends of the year outside on rides, the Burlington Chocolate Fest has just what you need.

"I'm really happy because it's been a long time since I got to be outside," said one kid at Chocolate Fest.

"The cold kind of got me down, I had finals, I was stressed, Now it's super hot outside and I'm super pumped," said Harrison Pinkowski.

Chocolate Fest staff say the heat will bring more people out on Memorial Day weekend. 

"The more the heat comes, the better people feel about coming out," said Linda Fellenz with Burlington Chocolate Fest.

Roughly 35,000 chocolate lovers are expected to come through for a taste of fudge, chocolate covered strawberries or even chocolate covered pretzels.

This festival comes just about a year after massive flooding in Burlington. 

"We held strong through some tough times, we were without power, we were flooded all over," said Burlington Mayor Jeannie Hefty.

But summer is finally back this weekend for a community that needs it the most.

"All the citizens don't know how to handle the excitement after what we went through last summer," said Mayor Hefty.

About $175,000 that they expect to make from the fest will be donated to service groups in Racine County like food pantries and local churches. 

For more information about Burlington Chocolatefest including hours and admission fees, click here.