Mainstreet Waynesboro is bringing a version of one of its signature events back to downtown Waynesboro. The Chocolate Excursion will be held Saturday, March 5 from 2-5 p.m. at shops and restaurants in downtown Waynesboro. The event will feature many downtown restaurants and eateries as well as several other sweet chocolate sharers positioned in downtown businesses.

The Chocolate Excursion was created as a safe alternative to Mainstreet’s annual Chocolate Extravaganza, which is traditionally held on the first Saturday in March.Strollers will pick up a passport at the American Legion Post 15 starting at 2 p.m. and follow the prompts around downtown tasting and sampling chocolate from 14 different purveyors.

Purveyors scheduled to participate   include: Amberson House Bed and Breakfast, Brio Coffeehouse, The Candy Kitchen, Christine’s Café, The Crispy Bisquit, Krystal’s Cakes and Confections, Lake House Distilling Company, Nanner Bananer, Postmasters Coffee and Bakery, Rough Edges, Taqueria La Cienega, The Waynesburger and Zoe’s Chocolate Company. Tickets cost $25 in advance at Eventbrite.com and $30 at the door. Tickets include the excursion as well as a happy hour from 4-5 at the American Legion with acclaimed local singer Kerensa Gray and a complimentary glass of champagne,

“We are excited to bring this event to downtown,” said Bill Kohler, director of economic development for Mainstreet Waynesboro. “This is a chance to showcase our great businesses and restaurants, while sampling some of the best chocolate in the area,” Kohler said.

There also will be chances to win nearly a dozen raffle baskets at the Legion.

Sponsors include Mrs. Alma Oyer, Craig, Friedly, Potter & Moore Insurance Agency, a division of Blue Ridge Risk Partners, LLC., Daniel Arthur, Eunice Statler & Mayor Richard Starliper.

Proceeds benefit Mainstreet Waynesboro’s downtown revitalization efforts. Mainstreet is an independent nonprofit working since 1996 to attract and retain businesses and improve the look, safety and aesthetics in downtown Waynesboro.