Overview
The creators of Epicurean Indy proudly bring back MOkAO, a festival celebrating the global impact of coffee and chocolate through the lens of labor, sustainability, and cultural heritage. MOkAO brings together coffee and cacao artisans, roasters, artists, and chefs for an immersive experience unlike any other.
Presented by J’adore Pastry, MOkAO is designed to highlight the rich history of coffee and cacao in the Americas through indigenous traditions and contemporary products. Attendees can engage in tastings, educational sessions, live chef and artist demonstrations, and a private MOkAO dinner featuring coffee- and chocolate-inspired cuisine. The festival will also provide interactive experiences for families and food lovers alike.
“MOkAO is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of culture, craft, and community. By bringing together global flavors and local businesses, we are creating a space where people can truly appreciate the journey of coffee and chocolate from farm to cup, from bean to bar. We are thrilled and excited about this experience in Indianapolis and invite everyone to join us in honoring the traditions and innovations that shape these beloved industries,” said Youssef Boudarine, Chef/Owner of J’adore and creator of Epicurean Indy and MOkAO.
The two-day festival includes different ways for community members of all ages to engage in the celebration:
- Friday, April 3—The festival starts with an exclusive ticketed private dinner featuring 6 chefs and beverage professionals in collaboration with The Eiteljorg Museum. Guests will indulge in a curated dining experience centered around coffee and chocolate (wine pairing available).
- Saturday, April 4—Free and open to the community! MOKAO Exhibition and educational programs occur alongside an Epicurean Market held in partnership with Indiana SportsCorp. Attendees can explore the vendor and artist markets, enjoy live music, and visit coffee shop booths to hear engaging conversations, taste and purchase specialty coffee, and shop exclusive merchandise. A kid-friendly day with hands-on activities and educational experiences.The event will feature a variety of coffee and pastry shops, bringing a rich and diverse tasting experience.
A stunning chocolate art exhibition will be displayed in the former Stutz Car Museum throughout the festival, showcasing the creative fusion of food and artistry from chef Youssef and local artists.
MOkAO offers exclusive sponsorship opportunities for brands aligned with sustainability, ethical sourcing, and cultural appreciation. Sponsors will gain visibility through event branding, media exposure, For more information on sponsorships or to get involved, contact the J’adore Events Team at jadore.pastry@gmail.com.
Last year we featured approximately 40 vendors and saw about 3,000 attendees over two days at the Stutz. Many vendors sold out, and visitors loved the variety of vendors. For 2026, we are looking forward to featuring more vendors and activities for our audience to explore the origins and applications of coffee and chocolate.
This is the same weekend as the NCAA Final Four and we are partnered with Indiana SportsCorp as an affiliated event.
The event is outdoor, rain or shine.
Upcoming Events at The Stutz
