A new seasonal tradition that blends warmth, connection, and giving back is coming to Airdrie.
On October 31 at Nose Creek Park from 2 to 5 pm, the inaugural Cocoa & Community event will offer families and their friends an afternoon dedicated to hot chocolate, fun activities, and community building.
Organized by the Tarbiyah Collective — a community initiative rooted in the belief that meaningful relationships drive personal and collective growth — the gathering is designed to provide an environment on a day when many parents are looking for alternative activities for their children.
“We wanted to create an opportunity for families to come together in a relaxed, welcoming environment,” says Shaheera Vakani, founder of Tarbiyah Collective.
“We hope to create opportunities for families to meet, form friendships, and feel more connected to their local community. We also wanted to make community service a natural part of the gathering by encouraging families to support neighbours experiencing food insecurity.”
As an inaugural event, this year’s gathering introduces a unique combination of fun and charitable impact. Attendees can enjoy hot chocolate, treats from a local chocolate business, a craft table, and engaging experiences for children and parents.
The afternoon also features a strong philanthropic focus through partnerships with two vital organizations. Families are encouraged to bring a bag of non-perishable food items from the Airdrie Food Bank’s current list of urgent needs to support local residents facing food insecurity. Additionally, the event partners with the National Zakat Foundation (NZF) to raise awareness about its winter campaign, highlighting support available for individuals and families experiencing financial hardship during the colder months.
“At Tarbiyah Collective, we believe that community is about more than attending events; it is about building relationships and taking responsibility for one another,” says Vakani.
“Cocoa & Community is one small way we hope to put that belief into practice.”
Organizers hope the gathering leaves families with happy memories, stronger social bonds, and a deeper sense of belonging.
“We hope the highlight will be the atmosphere of togetherness: families enjoying hot chocolate, children participating in activities, and neighbours coming together around a shared purpose,” adds Vakani.
“We want the event to be a reminder that community is built through the small moments in which we show up for one another.”
Tickets to the Cocoa & Community event are $20 and must be purchased in advance. Learn more at luma.com.
