By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
The First Taste of Spring Maple Syrup Festival is back at the John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area, offering two weekends of sweet fun on March 8 & 9 and 15 & 16.
The festival, a celebration of Canadian culture and heritage, promises a wide range of outdoor activities and unique experiences. This year’s event will highlight 1850s maple-making traditions, with demonstrations on blacksmithing, pioneer toys, costumed interpretation, and the ever-popular maple taffy in the snow.
“The Maple Fest offers a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy a sweet tradition and learn about the history of maple syrup production,” said Kris Ives, Homestead Curator. “As an Early Settler site, our focus this year is on 1850s maple-making, giving guests a chance to step back in time and experience how early settlers harvested maple syrup.”
In addition to traditional activities, guests can participate in fun competitions such as the Lumberjack Costume contest, Boast-Worthy Beard and Moustache contest, and the Best Butter Tart contest. Tasters’ Weekend will feature samples of local maple products, as well as an artisan marketplace and a contest to crown the best Backyard Maple Maker.
A special exhibit on the history of maple making will be available, alongside guided hikes, hands-on activities, and the ever-popular Maple Market. On March 15, the Homestead will also host Carrie Ann Peters, Language & Culture Coordinator of the Caldwell First Nation, for a special cultural presentation.
“Each weekend is packed with activities for the whole family to enjoy,” said Ives. “The Maple Trail returns this year, with local businesses offering unique maple treats, from baked goods to food pairings and decadent food and wine specials.”
Admission to the festival ranges from $6 to $8 for individuals, with family passes available for $30. ERCA’s seasonal pass also grants access to the event and all other conservation areas and special events for the year. Advance ticket purchases are encouraged to skip the line.
For more information and to download the Maple Trail map, 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, established by the Province of Ontario in 1973, has been serving the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region for over 50 years, providing programs and services for the conservation, restoration, and management of natural resources.
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