LUCAS – The same trees that welcome visitors with a stunning show each fall are behind a day packed with free events and experiences at the annual Malabar Farm Maple Syrup Festival, held from noon to 4 p.m. March 7-8 and 14-15.
Visitors will see firsthand how sap is collected from Ohio maple trees and transformed to delicious maple syrup and sugar at an authentic sugaring camp. Live historical and fiber art demonstrations offer endless opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves in age-old traditions that date back to the earliest Native Americans, yet are more popular today than ever.
More information on this and other Mansfield experiences as well as, lodging and dining recommendations can be found at DestinationMansfield.com.
Historical reenactors will demonstrate early sugaring techniques, through present-day maple production. A self-guided tour of the sugar camp and sugarhouse will reveal the evolution of sugaring equipment and how it’s used to create syrup, highlighted by samples of just-made real maple syrup.
Walk-thru tours of the Big House introduce visitors to the fascinating history of Malabar Farm, while food and maple products are offered to taste, and to purchase to take home. Activities will take place throughout Malabar Farm State Park, including horse-drawn wagon rides that clip-clop guests all around the park’s 300 acres of gorgeous, undulating farmland.
While the entire Maple Syrup Festival is free, bringing cash is recommended, as donations to the draft horse team of volunteers from the Central Ohio Draft Horse Association are appreciated. Pure Ohio maple syrup, homemade maple walnut fudge, maple cotton candy, maple popcorn and other maple products will be available in the Malabar Farm Gift Shop throughout the season.
A destination unlike any other, Mansfield and Richland County, Ohio offers unusual travel adventures and experiences, such as spending the night in a haunted former state prison where Hollywood blockbuster movies are shot, world-class motorsports, skiing, hiking, biking, golf, and loads of other outdoor adventures attract families and visitors of all ages.
Complete visitor information and free visitor guides are available at DestinationMansfield.com or by calling (800) 642-8282.
