Attend a Maple Sugaring Event in Northern Michigan
It’s officially Maple Syrup Season! Did you know Michigan is one of the top 10 producers of maple syrup in the United States? Because of this, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about maple syrup production, see maple syrup being made, and even sample some freshly made maple syrup! Check out the list before for upcoming Maple Sugaring events in Northern Michigan.
Maple Sugaring Events
The Science of Making Maple Syrup - March 2, 1pm – 3pm
Grass River Natural Area, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire, MI 49615
Discover the art of tapping maple trees by learning both traditional and modern methods. Tap into the science of maple syrup production, tree identification, equipment needs, and get instruction for small scale DIY projects.
Cost: $75
More info and registration
Maple Sugaring Days at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Saturday March 4-Sunday March 5, 10am-3pm
Dechow Farm: 3991 W Harbor Hwy, Maple City, MI 49664
Olsen Farm: 3164 W Harbor Hwy, Maple City, MI 49664
Maple Sugaring Days is the first-ever maple sugaring event at the Lakeshore. Experience the sugaring process through time. Learn the history of maple sugaring from the Anishinaabe, then travel to the present day at the Olsen Farm. End your adventure by sampling warm syrup or making maple taffy.
Cost: Free with a park pass
More info
Intro to Tapping Maple Trees - Saturday, March 11, 11am
Grass River Natural Area 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire, MI 49615
Discover the ceremonial art of maple tapping by learning both traditional and modern methods. This program will cover all of the equipment you need to get started, as well as how to do it at home. Get a chance to tap a tree, and see maple syrup being made, from tree to bottle. Limited space. Pre-registration required.
Cost: $10 per person
More info and registration
MapleFest - Saturday, March 18 - 12:00 - 3:00pm
Grass River Natural Area 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire, MI 49615
Join us as we boil sap to syrup on the evaporator at the Pavilion at the Grass River Center. Stop by any time and see the process in action of making maple syrup. Ask staff questions and hike on the trail to see where we tap trees, hang buckets and lines, and collect the sap. The Center will be open indoors from 10am to 4pm. A limited supply of Grass River Maple Syrup may be available for sale.
Cost: Free
More info
Michigan Maple Weekend
Michigan Maple Weekend is divided by region. Northern Lower Michigan’s Maple Weekend takes place 3/25-3/26 and allows guests to experience what happens at Michigan maple sugar bushes across the state. Trees will be tapped and sap will be flowing. See how it’s harvested, and then made into the delicious syrup you enjoy. You may also catch a glimpse of maple candy, maple cream, and maple sugar being made. Meet the sugar makers who work their maple magic and support these local businesses by purchasing some of their special sweet treats to enjoy at home.
View map of participating sugaring farms
Did we miss an event? Drop us a note and let us know!