Festival Of The Sugar Maples Held In March

MARENGO, IL — McHenry County Conservation District will host its Festival of the Sugar Maples over two weekends in March.

The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 5 to 7 and March 12 to 14 at Coral Woods Conservation Area, 7400 Somerset Drive in Marengo. The event is free, but pre-registration is required.

Since 1979, the conservation district has taught thousands of visitors and school groups about the process of turning the sap from maple trees into delicious maple syrup. Those stopping out will get to learn the fascinating history of maple sugaring and the evolution of the sap collection process.

Tours, which include a half-mile walk through the woods, begin every 15 minutes and last about one hour. All ages are welcome and attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather. Pets are not allowed.

Those looking to tap their own maple tree can pick up a spile or two with instructions on how to
make their own syrup, according to a news release. Pure maple syrup, maple leaf shaped cookie cutters and maple flavored candies, syrup straws, cream spread and cookies will be available for purchase.

The festival coincides with the Union Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, which will run from 7 a.m. to noon on March 7 and 13 at the Union Fire Protection District, 6606 Main Street, Union.

For more information, call (815) 479-5779 or visit www.MCCDistrict.org.