For you chocolate lovers, here’s an upcoming opportunity to sample the many tastes of chocolate (both savory and sweet) from restaurants including: El Charro, La Cocina, La Indita, El Minuto, and Real Bakery.

When? Sat. February 13, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where? At the Presidio de San Agustin de Tucson, 133 W. Washington (corner of N. Church St.) Tickets are $5 for 3 tastings.
(For special offer including a walking tour, continue reading).

Also happening at the Presidio will be storyteller Jean Baxter about the fate of Father Garces, at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Padre Francisco Garces

Who was Father (Padre) Garces? In 1775 Tucson’s Presidio del San Agustin was established. “Soon after, Father Francisco Garces was commanded to build a new settlement in Yuma. Although much beloved by many of the Indians, Father Garces was still seen as a representative of the detested New Spain, and the Indians soon attacked his settlement. Garces was captured while drinking his chocolate and resting at a ranch house. The warriors called to him to “stop drinking that and come outside. We are going to kill you.” To which Garces replied, “We would like to finish our chocolate first.” (from the event flyer).

And you can also take the El Presidio Historic District walking tour for $15, at 10:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m, 2 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. Stroll along Main Street and see how the Corbetts, Mannings, and Steinfelds entertained in their homes. Special offer: $18 for the walking tour and the chocolate tastings.

Also during this event will be featured musical performances by El Mariachi Corazon de Tucson. Entrance to the Presidio is free all day.

For more information, log onto website for the Tucson Presidio Trust for Historic Preservation whose mission is:
“To guide and aid in the interpretation of the history of the Old Pueblo at the Tucson Origins Heritage Park with special emphasis on the Spanish Colonial period through research, education and living history.” Phone number is (520) 837-8119.

Also coming up at the Presidio this month:
Saturday February 27, Living History Day. 10am – 3pm. Crafts demonstrations, soldiers drilling, and cannon fire bring the Presidio to life. Sample Spanish Colonial food and watch the reenactors bake bread in an horno (oven). Parking is free on the nearby streets.