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 30-40 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. 24-25; March 2-3, 9-10, 16, 2024

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 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24 and 30-31, 2024

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 2, 2024

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 2-3, 9-10 and 16-17, 2024

Learn how trees produce 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 16-17, 2024

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.

Maple Tree Festival at North Park Village Nature Center Park

March 16-17, 2024

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

Sugar Bush Fair at Merkle Cabin at Spring Valley

March 16-17, 2024

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. Registration is recommended because the event sells out fast. 

Maple Syrup Festival at River Trail Nature Center

March 17, 2024

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

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

March 21-31, 2024

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 27, 2024

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

This post is updated annually.


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Kari Zaffarano
Kari Zaffarano
Kari Zaffarano is a mom of one and Chicago Parent's Audience Development Coordinator. She tracks down the best events every week and shares the inside scoop with families online. She enjoys reading, traveling and exploring new places with her son.
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