Welcome spring at maple syrup festivals in the Fox Valley

A sweet tradition continues this spring when the Forest Preserve District of Kane County and the McHenry County Conservation District hold their annual maple sugaring events.

Maple Sugaring Days, Kane County

Learn how to tap a maple tree and taste pure, local syrup at the Forest Preserve District of Kane County’s Maple Sugaring Days from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 2 and 3, at Creek Bend Nature Center in LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles.

District naturalists will demonstrate how to tap a maple tree, and visitors will have the opportunity to try drilling and setting a tap. Participants will simmer sap over an open fire and watch as it thickens.

There will be ice cream visitors can drizzle with maple syrup, as well as doughnuts. Hot chocolate and maple syrup will be available for purchase.

After the program, visitors can explore exhibits at Creek Bend Nature Center and make a craft to take home.

For information, call (630) 444-3190, search @forestpreserve on social media or visit kaneforest.com.

Festival of the Sugar Maples, McHenry County

McHenry County Conservation District will hold its annual Festival of the Sugar Maples from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 9, 10, 11, 16 and 17 at Coral Woods Conservation Area, 7400 Somerset Drive in Marengo.

This event teaches the process of turning sap from maple trees into maple syrup through hourlong tours and hands-on demonstrations and activities. Attendance is free, but advance registration is required. Register online at MCCD.me/FSM. All ages are welcome, but pets are not allowed.

Tours begin every 15 minutes. Participants will learn the history of maple sugaring and the evolution of the sap collection process, and can even try their hand at tapping their own tree. Maple syrup and other maple products will be available for purchase.

For details, visit mccdistrict.org.