As the chill of winter gives way to the warmth of spring, the First Taste of Spring Maple Syrup Festival is back, and it’s sweeter than ever. Join this iconic celebration of Canadian culture at the John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area on March 14 & 15 and 21 & 22.
“With two distinctly themed weekends, this year’s Maple Fest again offers outdoor fun and unique experiences at this sweet-tasting tradition and celebration of natural and cultural heritage,” said Kris Ives, Homestead Curator.
“The Conservation Centre features a special exhibit exploring maple making as an Indigenous Innovation. On the grounds, as the Homestead is an Early Settler site, 19th century maple making will be the main focus of the festival activities – see the trees tapped, the sap evaporating, and the sweet maple products being made. The festival also features additional old-fashioned fun in the form of blacksmithing and woodworking demonstrations, pioneer toys and games, costumed interpretation, and the ever-popular maple taffy in the snow taking place each weekend.”
On Lumberjack Weekend, happening March 14 & 15, families can participate in the Lumber Games, Lumberjack Costume competition, Boast-Worthy Beard and Moustache competition, and shop the local artists and artisans in the Makers’ Market, and more. On March 14 and 15th, the Homestead is pleased to welcome Carrie Ann Peters, Language & Culture Coordinator of Caldwell First Nation.
The following week features Tasters’ Weekend, guests can enjoy samples of delectable maple products from local businesses, and watch the best Maple Butter Tart and Backyard Maple Maker be crowned.
Each weekend features exhibits on the history of maple making, special hikes, hands-on activities, and, of course, the ever-popular Maple Market.
A full slate of activities offered each weekend can be found at www.essexregionconservation.ca/maple.
Admission to the event ranges from $6 – $8 for individuals and $30 for a family pass. ERCA’s seasonal pass also provides admission to this event, and all conservation areas and special events for the entire year. Advance ticket purchases are encouraged so you can skip the line!
For more information, visit www.essexregionconservation.ca/maple. The Maple Festival is proudly sponsored by St. Clair College and the St. Clair College Alumni Association.
The Essex Region Conservation Authority is a public sector organization established by the Province of Ontario in 1973 and governed by local municipalities. For more than 50 years, it has delivered programs and services to further the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources in watersheds in the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region.
