Watson's Chocolates is celebrating 80 years with free Valentine hearts

Watson's Chocolates is celebrating 80 years with free Valentine hearts

On Saturday, February 7, 2026, Watson’s Chocolates will host a special Valentine’s Day 80th birthday celebration at its flagship Kenmore location. Customers 80 years old and over are invited to receive a free Valentine’s chocolate heart, personalized just for them. In exchange, customers will be asked to share a favorite Watson’s memory from first dates and anniversaries to family traditions passed down through generations.

The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 2916 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore, while supplies last.

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"My grandparents started Watson’s Chocolates just a few doors down in 1946. Watson’s has always been about more than just chocolate - it’s about traditions, celebrations and sharing something special. Watson’s is family, not just our family, but the customers and employees who have become like family” said Whitney Watson Beecher of Watson’s Chocolates. “As we celebrate our 80th year, we want to give something back to the people who’ve been part of our story from the start. The memories and stories shared with us are what keep us working so hard. The holidays are busy, but we love being part of it not only here in WNY, but with customers across all 50 states and around the world!"

Founded in 1946, Watson’s Chocolates is Western NY’s beloved, family-owned chocolatier. Best known for handcrafted confections, including their legendary Sponge Candy, Watson’s helps families mark life’s sweetest moments with unwavering quality and exceptional service that now spans four generations. Still family-owned and operated, Watson’s continues to produce its famous confections using time-honored techniques and original recipes.

This Valentine’s Day event is part of a year-long series of celebrations marking Watson’s 80th anniversary.

Event Details:
What: Free Valentine’s chocolate hearts for customers 80 & over, in exchange for a Watson’s memory
When: Saturday, February 7, 2026  10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Where: Watson’s Chocolates, 2916 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, NY
Details: While supplies last

Comments (6)

  • Roberta A. Evans on Feb 07, 2026

    My husband and I moved on Delaware near W. Ferry about 22 years ago. After weeks of unpacking and settling in, we decided to acquaint ourselves with the “neighborhood.” A walk to Elmwood was the first of many to come. Our first in-store stop was Watson’s where we purchased a half pound of peanut clusters. Then we stopped at another candy store on Elmwood and bout another half pound of peanut clusters to compare. We proceeded to walk Elmwood all the way to City Hall and make our return home via Delaware. After consuming a pound of clusters, it was decided by acclimation that Watson’s was the “very best chocolate.” To this day, Watson’s has been our No. 1 choice for a personal treat, favors, and gifts. By the way, we’ve introduced your chocolate bark to out-of-state relatives. Our daughter-in-law in particular has no problem waiting for her late birthday gift since her birthday is in November just before the bark is available. YUMMMM from the Evans Family.

    Wish the weather was more agreeable so that I (84 years old) would have the courage to venture out and celebrate your success.

  • Janet GIOIA on Feb 07, 2026

    Went to all the Ken more Schools.I am 90 years old and always went to the Elco Bar in the village where they sold your candy as you paid your bill.Aways bought my Easter rabbit there where you had a small store with narrow spaces full of different kinds of animal molds

  • Ray Schmaltz on Feb 06, 2026

    I have enjoyed Watson’s Chocolate my whole life. Mrs. Watson would take me through the candy kitchen every year and show me all the new candy ideas.

  • Bonnie McMorrow on Feb 05, 2026

    I have purchased valentine hearts for my children for over 57 years. Every year I have purchased heart for my 3 children and once married for their spouses and still buying for. my grandchildren. My son and family live in Bluffton , South Carolina and I just ordered hearts to be mailed . No matter how old they are they still want their personalized heart!

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