The Chocolate Festival is just one in a series of new events planned for the Enumclaw Expo Center during the year to come.

While making long-range plans to convert the acreage to a top-notch equestrian facility, plans are in the works to add events that will attract visitors to the grounds.

“Our imagination is the only limit to what we can create,” said Larry Fetter, director of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. “Enumclaw has an abundance of local talent that can be recruited to create new festivals, events, entertainment, art shows – you name it.”

While drawing visitors to the Expo Center, the addition of new events has a second goal – to help spur interest in downtown Enumclaw.

“We simply must attract tourism to Enumclaw and make downtown part of their visitor experience,” said Cathy Rigg, executive director of the local chamber of commerce.

Aside from the Enumclaw Chocolate Festival, plans are being made for an Oktober Fest on Oct. 9 and 10 and Christmas craft show on Nov. 20 through 22. Indoor golf and batting cages are slated for January.

Anyone with an idea for a festival or event is encouraged to contact Fetter at 360-302-0236 or larryfetter@ci.enumclaw.wa.us.