It’s the Canadian tradition that seems to signal the start of spring and maple syrup production is ramping up in the Capital.
The Maple Sugar Festival at the Vanier Muséoparc kicked off on Sunday and is a family tradition for many.
“It’s Vanier’s hidden gem, said Sheila Spencer. “We come every year, it's a great event for our family, it’s great for all ages.”
“It's such a great location and the food is good and it's a real Canadian tradition,” said Margaret Brown.
800 trees were tapped by volunteers on the festival grounds in Richelieu Park this season. That could produce up to 250 litres of maple syrup, but it depends on Mother Nature.
“The season started early, now it's stopped because of the weather,” said Muséoparc director Rachel Crete.
“It has to be -5C at night and +5C during the day for us to be able to collect the sap.”
Many people said the sugar bush is also a place for learning.
“There is an educational element to show people, my kids and other people how maple bush traditionally works, I know it's slightly different now but it's a really good opportunity to see how it works and to eat the syrup,” said Brown.
There are a number of activities for kids going on during the festival, as well as a lumberjacks’ challenge, a senior’s dinner dance and performances.
Visit Muséoparc's website for a full list of activities and times.
The festival wraps up on March 24.
With a report from CTV Ottawa’s Katie Griffin
