Maple season arrives this year at a time when people are primed to make the most of local experiences and national pastimes. Tapping trees, boiling syrup, and rolling maple taffy in the snow are annual traditions that can evoke rich, happy memories of Canadian spring—or create new ones for kids on their first trip to the sugar bush.
Though several sugar bushes throughout Kawarthas Northumberland welcome visitors throughout March and into April, there’s no better time to take a tour than Maple Weekend. On April 5 and 6, producers across Ontario will host demonstrations, offer samples, and celebrate the unique pleasures of the season.
Nine producers in the region are participating in 2025. Don’t miss a chance to visit a sugar shack (or two, or three) and learn more about the processes behind maple syrup.
We’ve done our best to confirm that the following businesses are ready to host, but it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm. Just be sure to bring your boots so you can enjoy the forest to its fullest.
Staples Maple Syrup (403 ON-7A, Cavan)
This multigenerational family farm and 4-time Royal Winter Fair winner invites guests to watch their production process and enjoy fresh samples on Sunday April 6, 1 pm to 4pm.
Woodleigh Farms (528 Sharpe Line, Cavan)
Woodleigh Farms has been producing maple syrup for over four decades. On the maple weekend, they’ll offer a tour of their operation as well as their new passive solar greenhouse.
Clancey & Gale’s Maple Products (542 Waite Rd, Pontypool)
Try your syrup on top of fresh hot waffles at this popular Pontypool location. Please call ahead to 705-277-9420 to book a time slot between 9:00AM and 4PM.
J & K Sugar Shack (3804 Challice Line, Millbrook)
Indulge your sweet tooth with this small family-run operation’s delicious syrup as well as maple butter, sugar, lollipops, candies, cotton candy and cookies.
Red Mill Maple (1232 Deyell Line, Millbrook)
Red Mill’s tasting bar is the perfect place to sample tasteful twists on classic maple syrup, such as bourbon barrel-aged and cinnamon-infused syrup. Traditional French-Canadian crêpes and snow taffy will also be available.
Rainbow Woods Farms (65 Ripleys Way, Kawartha Lakes)
Rainbow Woods doesn’t just make excellent maple syrup—visit for a chance to explore the farm’s trails, or meet the spring lambs.
Sweet Maple Farm (10010 Power Line Rd, Bailieboro)
On Saturday, April 5 from 9-5, enjoy creative twists on a classic sugar bush visit with a scavenger hunt, maple-themed sensory bin, trails, and more.
Puddle Duck Farm (476 County Rd 10, Millbrook)
With over 2000 taps, Puddle Duck Farm is a great opportunity to see a sugar shack in action—and the maple butter and candies are sure to please as well.
Johnston’s Farm Market (10704 Northumberland County Rd 28, Bailieboro)
Demonstrations and samples are the order of the day at Johnston’s Farm Market. Call ahead to be sure you don’t miss boiling times!
