Maple Fest Approaching At John R. Park Homestead

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With the snow and cold, this has seemed like the never ending Winter, but the first sign of spring will soon be here – maple syrup season.

The John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area is now taking reservations for its popular maple education programs and group tours, offered from February 24th to March 28th.

The Homestead’s maple programs are appropriate for any age, explains Education Coordinator Janet Cobban. “We tailor our presentation to meet curriculum links or special interests that the group may have. This theme attracts Girl Guides and Scouts, seniors’ groups, day camps, New Canadians and schools. Our maple programs are available en francais on select days.”

There is something offered for everyone. Wear your boots to see the trees tapped and the sap boiling in a large iron cauldron. Help a cook in pioneer garb while finishing the syrup on the 1850s kitchen fireplace. Inside the modern visitor centre, discover the science of the maple tree. The heritage of maple flows from the First Nations, to early settlers, to Black emancipation, to today’s Olympic athletes. There’s a reason the maple leaf is Canada’s symbol!

Bookings are available for half day (1.5 hour) or full day (4 hour) programs. Pure local maple syrup, maple butter and maple sugar are offered for sale in the Homestead gift shop. To reserve a date; call: (519) 738-2029, or email [email protected].

No group? You are invited to attend the Homestead’s public events:

Essex County’s Only Maple Syrup Festival:

Learn about a true Canadian tradition at the Homestead’s Maple –First Taste of Spring event, on Sunday March 2nd from Noon to 4pm at the John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area. Admission is $6 for adults; $4 for children (3-16), and Family Maximum $20.

More maple fun will follow through the March Break:

Attend one of the Homestead’s popular “Maple March Break for Families” Programs: Friday 7th, and repeated Tuesday 11th and Friday 14th at 1:30pm sharp. Get hands-on in this fun and educational program for all ages to enjoy. Family Admission is $20.00.

Maple Moon:

Join the exciting Maple Moon evening program on Tuesday March 11th at 7pm. Pre-registration is required for this sugaring-off party by candlelight including taffy making on snow. Exclusive maple activities are in store for this magical evening. $15.00 per person. Limited numbers. Register online at: www.onlineregistrations/jrph.