chocolate run, spicy hot chocolate

December 12, 2025

Shhh...Good morning, Louisville!

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to have the absolute best weekend possible. But first, a little espionage humor:

Why did the secret agent wear two pairs of glasses?

... To improve his double-vision!

Forget the secret mission, your real mission is finding time to connect and play. From the waterfront to homemade hot chocolate, this week's list of events is ready for immediate deployment. Let's make this weekend legendary!

Cheer Station Stroll
Why we like it: Free to watch, big energy, and a short riverfront walk while cheering runners. Hot cocoa smells don’t hurt.
When: Sat, Dec 13, 7:30am–noon ET
Where: Waterfront Park, 231 E Witherspoon St, Louisville, KY 40202
Price: Free to spectate
Ages: All ages; strollers OK
Book/Info: Waterfront events | Race info
Weather: Possible snow
Accessibility: Long, paved paths; seasonal restrooms; surface lots and garages nearby.

  • 🎄 Charlestown “Christmas City” Lights Walk
    Why we like it: Huge light displays across Greenway Park and the square. Easy, stroller-friendly loop and plenty of photo spots for memories.
    When: Fri–Sun, Dec 12–14, dusk–10pm ET
    Where: Greenway Park, 399 Market St, Charlestown, IN 47111
    Price: Free
    Ages: All ages; strollers OK
    Book/Info: City “Christmas in Charlestown”
    Weather: Snow
    Accessibility: Paved paths; park restrooms; free parking lots

WHERE TO EAT 

HOMEMADE HOT CHOCOLATE
I thought this would be a great activity to do as a family. Full credit goes to Preppy Kitchen!

🥣 Ingredients

  • 4 oz bittersweet chocolate (or chocolate chips)

  • 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk (or almond/oat milk for non-dairy)

  • 3 tbsp cocoa powder (Dutch-processed or natural)

  • 3 tbsp sugar (add a 4th tbsp if you prefer sweeter)

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • Pinch of cayenne (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Optional: marshmallows for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prep the chocolate

    • Chop 4 oz bittersweet chocolate into small pieces and set aside.

  2. Make the base

    • In a pot, add 3 cups milk.

    • Whisk in 3 tbsp cocoa powder, 3 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, pinch of cayenne, and 1 tsp vanilla.

  3. Whisk properly

    • Traditionally, use a molinillo (Mexican wooden whisk) to froth the mixture.

    • If unavailable, use a narrow whisk.

  4. Heat gently

    • Place over medium heat until steamy (do not boil).

    • Stir occasionally to keep smooth.

  5. Add chocolate

    • Stir in chopped chocolate until fully melted and incorporated.

  6. Serve & garnish

    • Pour into mugs.

    • Top with marshmallows if desired.

🍫 Notes

  • This recipe is not champurrado (which uses masa and piloncillo for a thicker, creamier drink).

  • The cayenne adds warmth without overpowering spice.

  • Frothing with a molinillo gives the drink its signature foamy top.

Enjoy your weekend!
Pat.

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