Celebrating World Chocolate Day: A Sweet Bond Between Pakistan and Canada

Every year on July 7, the world celebrates Chocolate Day, a delicious occasion to honour one of the most beloved treats on the planet. In Pakistan, the love for chocolate runs deep—ask anyone about their go-to cake flavour, and the answer will almost always be “chocolate.” From entertaining guests to celebrating birthdays, Pakistani celebrations are almost incomplete without chocolate rich cakes and pastries.

Chocolate is more than just dessert—it’s part of our culture of hospitality and celebration. So, for Pakistani students preparing to study in Canada, World Chocolate Day is a great opportunity to explore your new home through its sweet side. Canada may not be as globally famous for its chocolate as Belgium or Switzerland, but it is home to some truly exceptional chocolate brands worth discovering—and gifting.

Chocolate in Canadian Culture

Canada possesses a considerable chocolate-consuming population, boasting one of the highest per capita consumption rates globally. In addition to well-known supermarket brands, various Canadian cities are home to artisanal chocolatiers, ethical producers, and historic brands that emphasize both craftsmanship and community engagement.

If you're studying in Canada, here are some top chocolate experiences to put on your “to-try” list:

1. Purdys Chocolatier – A Canadian Classic

For over a century, Purdys Chocolatier has been a go-to for premium chocolate in Canada. Founded in Vancouver in 1907, Purdys is now a nationwide favourite with shops in major cities like Toronto, Edmonton, and Vancouver. Whether it’s their famous Hedgehogs (hazelnut gianduja in milk chocolate) or their salted caramels, Purdys makes excellent gifts to send home—or to treat yourself during university exam season.

Their chocolate is made with sustainable cocoa, and they offer fun seasonal collections around holidays like Christmas, Eid, and Valentine’s Day. You can walk into one of their purple stores and sample a truffle or two while browsing, or order online for delivery.

2. Peace by Chocolate – A Story of Hope and Resilience

One of the most inspiring Canadian chocolate stories comes from Antigonish, Nova Scotia, where a Syrian refugee family rebuilt their lives after fleeing war—and did it through chocolate.

Peace by Chocolate was founded by the Hadhad family, who had owned a chocolate factory in Syria before it was destroyed. After resettling in Canada in 2016, they started making chocolates in their new kitchen. With local support, their chocolates became a national symbol of resilience and peace.

Today, Peace by Chocolate products are sold across Canada, and the company donates a portion of its profits to peace-building initiatives and refugee support. The family has met with Prime Ministers, been the subject of a feature film, and continues to inspire immigrant entrepreneurs. Their story reminds us how food—especially chocolate—can be a powerful way to build bridges and share culture.

If you find yourself in Nova Scotia, maybe at St Francis Xavier University, be sure to visit their shop—or look for their bars in major grocery stores like Sobeys or Loblaws (called Real Canadian Superstore in Western Canada).

3. SOMA Chocolatemaker – For the Chocolate Connoisseur

Located in Toronto, SOMA is for serious chocolate lovers. Known for its bean-to-bar philosophy, SOMA sources cacao from around the world and produces small batches with intense flavour profiles. Their Mayan hot chocolate, single-origin bars, and “Twigs” (thin chocolate sticks) are perfect for students looking for something a little more adventurous.

Their chocolate is a little pricier, but it’s worth trying on a special occasion—or during exam stress!

4. Rogers’ Chocolates – A Taste of History

If you’re studying in British Columbia, don’t miss Rogers’ Chocolates, founded in 1885 in Victoria, home to the University of Victoria. This historic company still operates out of its original heritage shop, and it’s like stepping into a chocolate museum. Their Victoria Creams are famous across Canada—large, sweet, creamy centres coated in rich chocolate.

It’s an old-fashioned experience, but a delicious one. Perfect as a gift for family or professors!

Chocolate Shopping Tips for International Students

Where to Buy:

• Purdys – Malls and shopping centres nationwide.

• Peace by Chocolate – Online store, Sobeys, Loblaws, Superstore, Safeway and small boutiques.

• SOMA – Only in Toronto (Distillery District and King West).

• Rogers’ Chocolates – Victoria, Vancouver, and online.

• Farmers Markets & Craft Fairs – Look out for local chocolatiers near your campus!

Student Tips:

• Look for clearance chocolate after holidays like Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine's Day. This is great for international students on a budget.

• Don’t forget duty-free! Canadian chocolates make excellent gifts to bring home.

• Watch out for maple versions—Canadians love blending chocolate with their iconic syrup.

A Taste of Home, A Taste of the World

Chocolate is a universal comfort food, and for Pakistani students studying in Canada, it offers both familiarity and exploration. Whether you're reminiscing about bakery cakes back home or discovering a new favourite truffle, chocolate can make your journey feel a little sweeter.

This World Chocolate Day, celebrate the love for chocolate that crosses borders. Try something new. Share with friends. And remember, sometimes, the smallest things—like a square of chocolate—can bring the biggest comfort.

Now that we know all about chocolate in Canada, it’s time to start exploring Canadian universities and colleges. Contact us at Go 2 Canada Education Services for all your study in Canada questions and assistance.

Photo Courtesy of Lisa at Pexels