Family events taking place in the area during March
Kingston, N.Y. (Feb. 14, 2012) – Typically, in any given year, the thick, winter snow of the Catskill Mountains begins to melt as the daytime temperatures start warming from February into March and its maple sugaring season. This year, even without the cold and snow, maple will still flow from the trees of Ulster County. It just will come a little earlier this year. And, as always, there are a number of fun family events to take part in to celebrate the pride and joy of our region.
Tap a tree, hang a bucket, enjoy something sweet and learn about the history of maple sugaring – dating all the way back to ancient customs of Native American cultures. Sample all of the best syrups from across Ulster County after carrying on the rich tradition of maple syrup production by checking out the following fun events:
Kids Day in the Sugarbush at Mohonk Preserve
1-3 p.m., Sunday, March 4, 2012
Join the Longbotham Family, Mohonk Preserve Volunteers, and come along for a short hike and a sweet treat as you join in the fun of maple sugaring! Be ready to tromp through the snow, if there is any, or mud, help out in the sugarbush, and learn how to make syrup just like generations of families have done. Children ages 4 and up are welcome, but they must always be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited, so make your reservation by calling 845-255-0919. Mohonk Preserve, 3197 Route 44/55, Gardiner, NY 12525. Free.
Maple Fest at Ashokan Center
11 a.m.-4 p.m.; 4 p.m.-11 p.m., Saturday, March 10
The family fun lasts all day at Maple Fest, an event featuring hands-on activities, an all-day pancake breakfast, music, dancing and more. Take part in tapping a tree, see maple syrup being made and sample a wide range of fresh syrups and maple candy. You can even try your hand at blacksmithing, tinsmithing and broommaking. There will also be a number of musical performers and events all day long. At 4 p.m., there’s a French Canadian jam session, so bring your fiddle and stay for a potluck dinner (bring a maple-themed dish to share) at 6 p.m. A waltz with Jay and Molly is planned for 7:30 and Peter Blue & Mooncoin will kick off a contra dance and square dance at 8. To learn more, visit http://ashokancenter.org or call 845-657-8333. Ashokan Center, 477 Beaverkill Road, Olivebridge, NY 12461. Daytime: $5 for adults and youth, $3 for children under 10, free for children under 5; Evening: $10 for adults and youth, $5 for children under 10, free for children under 5.
Maple Sugar Hike and Open Houses at Frost Valley YMCA
Hike 1 p.m. March 10; Open House 9 a.m.-4 p.m., March 17, 18, 24 & 25
Learn all about the all-natural tap-to-table process that is involved in making delicious maple syrup from the Frost Valley YMCA’s environmental education program. With tours that run every 30 minutes, it’s a great way for families to spend time together while learning. There are free samples of maple syrup offered at the end of each tour, and you’ll have the chance to purchase syrup and maple soda. For more information, call Benjamin Snyder at 845-985-2291/bsnyder@frostvalley.org or visit http://frostvalley.org. Frost Valley YMCA, 1920 Frost Valley Road, Claryville, NY 12725. Free. Register for the hike by emailing Snyder.
Maple Sugaring Program at Forsyth Nature Center
11 a.m. – noon, Saturday, March 24, 2012
The nature center will host a demonstration sap house that will teach visitors the maple sugaring process from start to finish, including history, tapping, collection, storage, processing and – most importantly – eating. The education program is free and open to the public. It takes place entirely outdoors, so be sure to dress warmly. For more information, call 845-339-3053 or visit http://forsythnaturecenter.org. Forsyth Nature Center, 157 Lucas Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401. Free.
