The first weekend in November brings food festivals across the globe celebrating the bounty of the oceans, exquisite local foods, the upcoming holidays and luscious chocolate and coffee.

Artisan chocolates are being extolled at the Salon Passion Chocolat & de la Gourmandise in Montreal, Quebec. The time honored, traditional methods of chocolate making are the focus of this event, which begins November 2 and runs through the weekend.

The 2007 Salon Passion Chocolat & de la Gourmandise is the third edition of an annual event that's fast becoming a sweet tradition among Quebecers, who themselves are fast becoming aficionados of fine chocolate. This distinctive show is designed to showcase the talent and passion of local chocolate artisans - men and women who create and shape this noble food.

Barbeque is the main event in Douglas, Georgia at the National BBQ Festival this Saturday and Sunday. Over $50,000 in cash and prizes is being awarded to the winners in categories such as the Best of the Best Sauce Contest, the Pie Contest and the Kids BBQ Contest.

The week-long Kona Coffee Cultural Festival kicks off on Friday in Kona, Hawaii. Hawaii's oldest food festival includes a parade, a cupping contest, a driving tour, regional food and of course, amazing Kona coffee!

Gordon Ramsey and James Martin are just two of the celebrity chefs appearing at the BBC Good Food Show Scotland this Friday through Sunday in Glasgow. There will be a whiskey tasting event, cooking demonstrations and local exhibitors showcasing their products.

The Florida Seafood Festival in Apalachicola, Florida offers fun (and messy) events such as Oyster Eating and Shucking Contests, a 5K fun run and live entertainment. This is the state's oldest maritime festival.

It seems a bit early, however, November 2,3 and 4 brings Christmas to Boston, Massachusetts at the 21st Annual Christmas Festival featuring crafts for sale and delicious food to sample. One of the highlights includes a gingerbread House Competition offering entries from the local restaurants, culinary schools, bakeries and hotels.

These are just a few of the dozens of food events this weekend. What's on in your area?