Maple Sugaring Season in Michigan
March is maple sugaring seasoning in Michigan, making this nature's sweetest time of year! It's the natural world's signal that winter is transitioning to spring, because collecting maple sap requires a delicate balance between below-freezing nights and warmer days. Michigan ranks fifth in the nation for maple syrup production, with an economic impact of nearly $2.5 million annually. It's considered Michigan’s oldest agricultural activity, dating back to early Native Americans who lived here long before Michigan became a state.
Each year, the Michigan Maple Syrup Association invites people to explore and enjoy this pure Michigan sweet treat during Michigan Maple Weekend. Held over three weekends during March and early April, participating sugar bushes offer activities such as farm tours, tree-tapping demonstrations and maple product sampling. Here in Northern Lower Michigan, the maple sugaring weekend is set for March 26-27, 2022. Check out these nearby sugar houses and learn how maple sap is harvested and turned into the delicious syrup we all love.
Britt Family Pure Maple Syrup, Tawas City
While the Britt family's tradition of producing pure maple syrup dates back over 100 years, it wasn't until 1998 that they opened their business. Each year they put in 2,000 taps! Their record sap collection in a 24-hour period is an impressive 4,500 gallons. During Michigan Maple Weekend, the Britt family will give tours of the woods and newly remodeled sugar house, explaining the maple syrup process and offering some delicious samples.
Delaney's Wood Fired Maple Syrup, Rose City
This family-run sugar bush will host their annual open house event during Michigan's Maple Weekend. What started as a hobby for Sean Delaney in 1996 has evolved into this flourishing small business. Visit the maple grove that's been in his family since 1890, and enjoy a taste of fun maple products including kettle corn, cotton candy and ice cream.
Ron's Pure Maple Syrup/ Reetz Family Sugarbush, West Branch
Since 1872, pure Michigan maple syrup has been produced on the Reetz family's farmlands. Every year, the majestic stands of sugar maple are tapped to produce sap by the tens of thousands of gallons. Through a mix of age-old tradition and modern technology, Ron’s Pure Maple Syrup produces delectable maple syrup, sugar and other tasty products.
Ed Troyer's Pure Maple Syrup, Fairview
Ed Troyer's Maple Syrup is family-owned and operated, crafting pure and natural maple syrup since 1999. Their products are rich in both tradition and taste and are made from the maple sap produced by maple trees on their farm. Take a trip to Fairview to learn how they collect the sap and turn it into sweet treats like syrup and candy.
