It is a well-known rite of spring and tradition for many Maine families – making the trip to sugarhouses for Maine Maple Sunday® weekend. The event, the first of its kind in the nation, is in its 41st year and serves a showcase of our state’s maple syrup producers during peak sap-gathering and production time.
The 2024 edition of Maine Maple Sunday® weekend will be held March 23 and 24. Some sugarhouses will be open both days, while others may be open for one day.
Visitors can expect maple syrup samples and syrup-making demonstrations at more than 100 sugarhouses statewide. Other Maine Maple Sunday® sites offer games, activities, treats, tours, music, and more.
You can find a list of participating sugarhouses by visiting the Events page on the Maine Maple Producers Association website at mainemapleproducers.com. Several Real Maine members will be taking part.
On March 5, Gov. Janet Mills and Maine Maple Producers Association President Lyle Merrifield tapped the Maple Tree at the Blaine House, an annual tradition.
Maine’s maple syrup industry is estimated to generate $55 million annually in economic activity and support more than 800 full- and part-time jobs across the state. Maine is the third largest producer of maple syrup, the state’s official sweetener, in the country.
“Maine Maple Sunday Weekend is a uniquely Maine tradition to celebrate our state’s world-class maple products and the Maine people who make them. Maine’s maple industry supports thousands of jobs, strengthens our economy, and produces – without question – the best maple syrup in the world,” said Gov. Mills.
Maine is home to 450 producers licensed to sell maple products. Most are small, artisan businesses focusing on high-quality products and customer relationships. Maine produces more than 575,000 gallons of syrup every year.
“Maine Maple Sunday Weekend holds a special place on my calendar annually,” said Amanda Beal, Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. “Exploring family farms, enjoying sugarhouse tours, sampling the diverse range of maple delicacies, and rallying behind local businesses captures this uniquely and quintessentially Maine experience. It’s an enriching weekend activity for both residents and visitors alike.”
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL VISIT:
- Each site is different – review schedules and hours of operation, complimentary or ticketed activities, etc. Before you head out, check for any changes – use local listings, webpages, social media, or call the business.
- Dress for the weather and the season – changing temperatures, melting or accumulating spring snow, and mud puddles are common.
- Follow farm rules; stay in visitor areas.
- Stick to established trails and roads.
ENJOY PURE MAINE MAPLE SYRUP YEAR-ROUND!
There are many ways and places to buy pure Maine maple syrup and maple products throughout the year. Real Maine members are a great place to start your search. You can find Maine maple products at sugarhouses, farm stands, local grocery stores, and through Maine-based online retailers. And be sure to look for the Maine pure maple syrup “Official Sweetener of Maine” logo.
Real Maine is the state’s official agriculture and agritourism promotions program. From maple syrup to maple candy to maple coffee, plan your agricultural experience with Real Maine. Visit www.RealMaine.com to connect to farms, food, and agriculture throughout Maine.
