World Chocolate Wonderland

World Chocolate Wonderland (simplified Chinese: 世界巧克力梦公园; traditional Chinese: 世界巧克力夢公園; pinyin: Shìjiè Qiǎokèlì Mènggōngyuán, literally, "World Chocolate Dream Park") is the first chocolate theme park in China.[1] Located in Beijing to the north of the Bird's Nest, its grand opening was on January 29, 2010.[1] It houses the world's biggest chocolate model of the Great Wall of China.[1]

On January 29, 2010, the World Chocolate Wonderland opened to the general public with a fashion show. Models adorned with wigs and dresses made of chocolate strode down the runway. One model wore a dragon costume composed of chocolate gold coins.[2]

The theme park's purpose is to "bring a little sweetness" to the Chinese people during the recession.[3] Furthermore, it was designed to allow visitors to learn about chocolate's history and its impact on other cultures.[citation needed] Because of the impending warm weather that would melt the chocolate, World Chocolate Wonderland closes in April of each year and reopens in January of the next year.[4]

  1. ^ a b c "World Chocolate Wonderland to Open in Beijing Friday". Xinhua News Agency. 2010-01-25. Archived from the original on 2010-01-28. Retrieved 2010-01-29.
  2. ^ Shapiro, Ari (2010-01-29). "Chocolate Wonderland Opens In Beijing". National Public Radio. Archived from the original on 2011-06-04. Retrieved 2010-01-29.
  3. ^ Cite error: The named reference CBN2010-01-29 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  4. ^ Barriaux, Marianne (2010-01-29). "Chocoholics flock to Beijing's Willy Wonka-style park". Agence France-Presse. Archived from the original on 2010-02-02. Retrieved 2010-01-29.