If you think of a Canadian stereotype, there’s a good chance that maple syrup comes into the equation somewhere. For many of my American friends who don’t have a lot of experience with Canadians, they conjure the image of a toque-wearing, maple syrup-swigging lumberjack who says “eh” a lot.
Well… three out of four isn’t bad. I don’t know if you could call me a lumberjack, but I’ve definitely been known to walk to the fridge for a little sip of fresh, Ontario-made maple syrup when craving a taste of something sweet.
A diverse ingredient, maple syrup goes well in both desserts and savoury dishes, from ice creams and pancakes to soups and barbeque glazes. Maple syrup season is also one of the first signs of the coming spring and summer seasons in Northeastern Ontario, and a great way to get outside with family and friends while celebrating our culture and history.
Maple Weekend
April, Across Northeastern Ontario
Hosted annually the first weekend of April, participating sugar shacks and maple syrup operations are encouraged to open their doors to the public! If you’ve ever wondered what goes into making that delicious condiment that tops your pancakes or wanted to try fresh maple candy on snow, Maple Weekend is the ideal opportunity. Kids and adults alike love spending time in the sugar shack!
Find a participating maple syrup operation near you.
Powassan Maple Syrup Festival
April
Powassan may be a small town, but its annual Maple Syrup festival is HUGE, and they take local foodie culture very seriously!
Photo provided by the Municipality of Powassan.
In previous years, we've celebrated the arrival of spring in downtown Powassan by participating in the pancake flipping contest; sampling locally made goods including maple syrup, butter tarts, maple candy, and more; taking in an expert sheep shearing demonstration; shopping a selection of locally made photography, art, crafts, and books; watching local lumberjacks duke it out for the champions title, and so much more. We can't wait to see what is in store this year!
Plan your visit to the Powassan Maple Syrup Festival.
Tour a Sugar Shack
Anytime
If you can’t make it out to a maple celebration, maple syrup season usually lasts a few weeks (weather dependent). There are plenty of opportunities to find a sugar shack near you and plan a visit! From Manitoulin Island to West Nipissing, Mattawa and beyond, producers are scattered throughout Northeastern Ontario.
Use this list to find a producer offering open sugar bush experiences near you!
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Taste buds piqued? Bookmark this article as we'll be adding more dates and events as they become available, or follow us on Facebook!
