OHIO — A cherished Ohio tradition makes a comeback next month: learning how to make maple syrup.

Visitors can indulge in the sweet, sticky goodness of maple syrup at five Ohio State Parks in March, which will host a wide range of family-friendly activities. 

“As the sap flows and the trees awaken, Ohio’s maple syrup festivals offer a sweet escape into nature at several of our parks,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “This is a great way for families to connect with the great outdoors and each other.”

Here's where you can learn all about maple syrup production, and enjoy some good treats: 

Hocking Hills State Park — Maple Sugaring in the Hills

  • March 9-10 from noon to 4 p.m.
  • Visitors will learn the art of turning local maple sap into syrup, learn the history of it all and guests can also purchase from local maple syrup.

Hueston Woods State Park — 57th Annual Maple Syrup Festival

  • March 2, 3, 9 and 10 from noon to 4 p.m.
  • A guide will take visitors on a hayride from the beach parking local to the start of a trail, and then a hike through the "Big Woods" state nature preserve. The guide will discuss the art of maple syrup production, and guests can enjoy food and drinks.

Indian Lake State Park — Maple Syrup Festival

  • March 16 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and March 17 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • There will be a demonstration on how sap is turned into maple syrup, and guests can purchase a breakfast with pure maple syrup, a pancake and sausage.

Malabar Farm State Park – 47th Annual Maple Syrup Festival

  • March 2, 3, 9 and 10 from noon to 4 p.m.
  • This will contain a whole experience with live historic and modern demonstrations, maple products and food, and event a horse-drawn wagon ride. Guests can also take a self-guided tour of the "Big House," a historic house on the property. 

Punderson State Park – Maple Sugar Time

  • March 10, 17, 24, and 31 from 8 a.m. to noon.
  • Visitors will learn about maple sugar time in Geauga County, and then afterward, there will be a pancake breakfast buffest. Reservations are recommended by calling 440-564-9144.

All of these events are free, however, guests are encouraged to bring cash if they wish to purchase from local vendors. 

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