The tap lines are going out, a sure sign that winter is on the wane and the first harvest of the year – the maple sugar harvest – is at hand. At Genesee Country Village & Museum, visitors can join in the celebration during the Maple Sugar Festival and Pancake Breakfast, or for a twist on happy hour, attend the Maple Sugar Soiree, an evening of maple-themed foods and drinks hosted at the Nature Center, home of the Museum’s new, modern sap evaporator.
During the weekends of March 23 to 24 and 30 to 31, guests to GCV&M can head out on the Maple History Trail to learn how various tapping methods evolved, and get hands-on with the tools of the trade. From the Age of Wood up to the Age of Plastic, maple harvesting through the years will be on display. In the recently completed sugarhouse, the evaporator will give guests an up-close look at how sap is made into thick, amber maple syrup. In addition to sampling the chilly, taffy-like treat “sugar on snow,” guests will be able to purchase maple popcorn, maple cotton candy, maple coffee and more.
The Historic Village will be a hub of activity featuring demonstrations of crafts and trades like coopering, blacksmithing, candle-making, and maple cookery of all types, plus the smokehouse and brewery will be active. Guests can hear folktales and legends from Native American storytellers twice daily, and join in games like “Flapjack Flip.” An all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast will also be available ($10 adults/$8 youth) served with, of course, plenty of maple syrup. Tickets to the Festival are $10 for adults, children and members are free.
A unique opportunity to see the sugarhouse in a more intimate setting will be the Maple Sugar Soiree on Friday, March 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. It’s a party celebrating the maple sugar harvest, when guests can join the Museum in toasting a successful maple sugaring season at this indoor/outdoor evening featuring live music, games, a bonfire, and more. Maple-themed foods will be on offer, as well as a maple craft cocktail, beer, and wine. This 21-and-over event is taking reservations now, as tickets are limited. Tickets to the soiree will include two free drink coupons, food tastings, and a complimentary ticket to the Maple Sugar Festival. Reservations are encouraged.
Visit www.gcv.org for more information.
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Brewery in the Historic Village. Photo by Mary Courtney
