Popular maple syrup festival hosting teaser tapping next weekend

The tradition continues as the Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival officially launches the 2026 season with its annual First Tapping Ceremony on Saturday, March 14, at Harlaine Farms in Sunderland, from 1 - 3 p.m.

The First Tapping Ceremony marks the symbolic start of maple syrup production and sets the tone for the much-anticipated festival season. Dignitaries, festival organizers, maple producers, and local residents will gather to witness the tapping of the first maple tree, a time-honoured ritual celebrating both the arrival of spring and Sunderland’s proud agricultural roots.

Each year, the Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival attracts thousands of visitors eager to enjoy fresh maple syrup, local food and craft vendors, live entertainment, family activities, and the welcoming spirit of the community. The festival will take place on April 11 and 12. The First Tapping event serves as a preview of the festivities.

Guests are encouraged to dress warmly and wear suitable footwear, as the event takes place outdoors.

Some highlights of what to expect at this year’s maple syrup festival:

Tour Harlaine Farms to learn about the modern processing of maple syrup and visit the sugar shack. Buses will be on hand to ferry visitors from Sunderland to Harlaine Farms and Salem Alpacas farm.

There will be live entertainment both Saturday and Sunday, including performances by Lexy the Rap Dad.

Family activities include bathtub races, lawn tractor pull demonstrations, and (almost) all-day pancake breakfasts.

Finally, outdoor vendors will feature maple syrup and maple syrup products, toys, hand-crafted items, clothing, and more. Vendors will be located on River and Church Streets, at the Town Hall, and at Sunderland Public School.

For more information about the 2026 Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival, including full festival schedules and activities, visit the festival’s website at maplesyrupfestival.ca or follow along on social media.