Locals often overlook the amazing experiences within their own backyards because they aren’t in the “tourist mindset”. Challenge yourself to be as open to new experiences as you’d be on vacation.
Many people who have lived in Ontario their entire lives haven’t taken full advantage of the maple syrup season. Maple syrup is an iconic internationally recognized symbol for Canada so don’t let another year pass you by without experiencing maple season in Ontario’s Southwest!
Road-Trip Worthy Maple Experiences and Events
Check out these sweet maple themed events, experiences, and festivals!
Family Maple Experience
Richardson's Farm in Dunnville, offers a family maple experience for visitors to learn about the process of making maple syrup. During the tour, visitors can see how sap is collected from maple trees and boiled down into syrup. They can also participate in various activities such as tapping a tree, tasting maple taffy, and taking a wagon ride through the farm. The experience is available on Saturday, March 2nd or 23rd. Get your tickets to this fun and educational experience, here.
Want to know more about the Family Maple Experience at Richardson's Farm & Market? Check out the video below!
The Maple Trail
The Essex Region Conservation Authority's Maple Trail is the perfect choice for visitors who want to explore various maple syrup producers to learn about the process of making maple syrup! Click here to learn more and get ready to experience the Canadian tradition of maple syrup production while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.
At-Home Maple Experiences
It’s easier than ever to enjoy local from the comfort of your own home!
Make Your Own Maple Syrup
The Richardson’s at Home Tree Tapping Experiences is ideal for those wanting to learn about the creation of maple syrup. Farmer James provides you with everything that you need to successfully tap your own trees and make your own maple syrup. He’s even recorded educational videos to walk you through the process!
3-Courses of Maple from Home
If you're looking for those delicious and sweet local maple products, without all of the work of tapping your own tree, pick up some high-quality Canadian maple syrup from a local farm in Ontario's Southwest. Click here for a map of maple syrup farms.
Then, utilize local ingredients to create a maple feast. Click the links within the menu to be directed to the recipes that were created by foodies throughout our region.
Starter:
- Maple Vinaigrette to put on your favourite leafy greens. Recipe from Catfish Creek.
- Roasted Vegetables in Maple Syrup by Crinklaw Maple Products.
Entree:
- The Blue Maple Curry Chicken Penne by Heather Pond-Manorome, Blue Elephant.
Dessert:
- Maple Sugar Cookies by Jakeman's Maple Syrup.
- Butter Tarts by Maple Ridge Syrup & Pancake House.
- Maple Taffy by Rolling Ridge Maple Products.
Drinks:
- Maple Tapped Cider by Cheryl Peck, The Cider Keg (caution, this drink contains alcohol).
- Maple French Vanilla Coffee Creamer by OurSugarBush.
- Maple Coldbrew by Kintore Coffee.
Looking for even more memory-making experiences for your family to connect? Browse our collection of experiences and itineraries that have been optimized for maximum fun and will set the stage for you to learn, play, and explore as a family.