Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival this weekend

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

BROCK: As the winter frost gives way to the gentle warmth of spring, the quaint town of Sunderland eagerly anticipates the arrival of its annual Maple Syrup Festival this weekend.

Set against the backdrop of blossoming trees and the promise of new life, this cherished event promises a weekend of sweetness, camaraderie, and the timeless tradition of maple syrup production.

Scheduled for the weekend of Saturday, April 6th, and Sunday, April 7th, the Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival heralds the arrival of spring in all its glory. Visitors from near and far are invited to partake in a variety of activities which showcase the art and science of maple syrup production, from guided tours of the sugarbush to hands-on demonstrations of tree tapping and sap boiling.

But the festival is more than just a celebration of syrup, it's a celebration of community. On Saturday, at 12:30 p.m. the Junior Farmers of Durham Region hold their popular bathtub races at the corner of Albert Street and River Street. The stage on River Street will also be bustling throughout the weekend, with an awesome lineup of local acts slated to perform.

Of course, no Maple Syrup Festival would be complete without a feast for the senses. Attendees can indulge in a mouthwatering array of maple-infused treats, from fluffy pancakes and waffles to savory dishes and decadent desserts. The Legion will be open for pancake breakfasts from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, and from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. As well, on both days, the Sunderland Lions Club will be serving their famous peameal on a bun next to Home Hardware. Local vendors will be on hand to showcase their finest maple-inspired creations, ensuring no palate goes unsatisfied.

But perhaps the most wonderful aspect of the Maple Syrup Festival is the opportunity to witness nature's bounty in all its glory. As the trees awaken from their winter slumber and the sap begins to flow, there's a palpable sense of renewal in the air, a reminder spring is a time of growth, change, and endless possibility.

So mark your calendars and join us for a weekend of springtime sweetness at the Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival. Whether you're a seasoned syrup enthusiast or experiencing the magic for the first time, there's something for everyone to enjoy.