Sweet Maple Syrup Events in Chicagoland

Maple syrup season signals the beginning of spring.

March not only makes us think about spring, but it’s also known as the sweet maple syrup season. Did you know that it takes 30 to 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup?

Learn more about this valuable commodity (and taste!) at these family fun events, many hosted by Chicagoland nature centers. Read some of our picks below and find the most updated list on our calendar.

Sap’s Rising at River Trail Nature Center

Feb. 25-26, 2023

Walk in the sugar maple forest at River Trail Nature Center to learn about the sweet process of maple syrup making. Registration required.

Maple Sugaring at Kline Creek Farm

March 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26, 2023

Using tools from the 1890s, experts demonstrate how to tap a tree, check collection buckets and thicken sap over the fire. For ages 3 and up. No registration required.

Maple Syrup Harvest at The Preserve of Highland Park

March 4, 2023

Hear how maple syrup was discovered and made. For ages 6 and up. There are two different sessions to choose from. Registration required.

Maple Syrup Hike at Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area

March 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 2023

Learn how trees work and about the sweet sap of sugar maples. Everyone gets a taste of the syrup. Dress for the weather. Registration required. 

Maple Fest at Red Oak Nature Center

March 18-19, 2023

Enjoy a short presentation on maple trees before heading out into the woods for a short hike to learn how people through the years have tapped maple trees and collected the delicious treat.

Sugar Bush Fair at Merkle Cabin at Spring Valley

March 18-19, 2023

Fill your plates with pancakes and sausage and learn about the longtime practice of making maple syrup. A limited number of breakfasts will be served each morning. Pre-registration is recommended because the event sells out fast. 

Maple Syrup Festival at River Trail Nature Center

March 19, 2023

Celebrate the arrival of spring with tree tapping, maple syrup history, crafts, games and more.

Maple Tree Festival at North Park Village Nature Center Park

March 19, 2023

Participate in activities and observe (and taste) the maple syrup process at this maple sugaring event.

Self-Guided Maple Syruping at Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area

March 20-31, 2023

Hike along the self-guided trail to learn the science behind how trees make sap and how it’s turned into real maple syrup. There are informational signs placed along the trail. No registration is required.

Spring Break Syruping at Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area

March 28, 2023

Enjoy a weekday Maple Syrup Hike to learn how trees work and about the sweet sap of sugar maples. You’ll receive a taste afterwards. Registration required. 


Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.

- Advertisement -

LATEST STORIES

See the Township High School District No. 214 2023-2024 Academic Calendar

Find all the important dates on the Township High School District No. 214 calendar.

Best Family Shows and Movies to Stream in December

Get into the holiday spirit with these kid-friendly picks!

Brave Listening: The Secret to Safeguarding Your Child’s Mental Health

Join us for our ParentEd Talk on Jan. 10, 2024, with Stacey Freedenthal, Ph.D., LISW.


- Advertisement -