The 32nd annual Hebron Maple Festival celebrates the art of maple sugaring with a weekend of activities, including syrup-making demonstrations, local artisans, food trucks, and a tractor parade.
Discover the Art of Maple Sugaring at the Hebron Maple Festival
( Credit to: Courant )
The 32nd annual Hebron Maple Festival is a delightful celebration dedicated to the art of maple sugaring. Taking place on March 16 and March 17, this weekend event offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From traditional favorites to exciting new additions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
( Credit to: Courant )
Hebron has been hosting the Maple Festival since 1991, originally as a fundraiser for the town library. Today, it has become a significant fundraising event for various town nonprofits. Under the theme of "Bringing it Home," this year's festival aims to highlight Hebron's deep connection to maple sugaring and support local organizations.
Coordinated by organizer Holly Habicht, the festival has a rich history and strong community involvement. The Douglas Library even features a display titled "Maple Fest through the Years," offering insights into the festival's longstanding tradition.
A Weekend Filled with Activities and Entertainment
( Credit to: Courant )
The Hebron Maple Festival offers a diverse range of events, most of which are free to the public. The festivities kick off with the Moonlight Gala Fundraiser on Friday evening, March 15, hosted by The Town Center Project. This event, inspired by a local resident's deep love for Hebron, aims to contribute to the community's growth and development.
( Credit to: Courant )
One exciting addition to this year's festival is the "Hebron's Own" expo, held in the Community Room of the Douglas Library. This expo showcases the talents of local artisans and at-home businesses, providing essential services and products to the community.
The heart of the festival lies in the sugar houses, where visitors can witness syrup-making demonstrations and partake in various events. Participating locations such as Wenzel's Sugarhouse, Woodyacres Sugar House, and Winding Brook Sugarhouse offer a fascinating glimpse into the maple sugaring process.
Other attractions include the Donifer Farms Donkey and Eeyore Museum, where visitors can meet the donkeys and support local artisans. The Hebron Historical Society hosts a quilt show and an early sugaring exhibit, along with offering delicious maple cookies.
For nature enthusiasts, AHM provides a Birds of Prey show and a reptile exhibit, while Hebron Parks and Recreation has partnered with the Town Center Project to organize a 5K run. And of course, visitors can savor delectable food from food trucks, local restaurants, and the American Legion's popular burgers.
The festival also features a wide array of top-notch artisans and crafters, carefully selected by the organizing committee. Their unique products and crafts contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the event.
The Grand Finale: Tractor Parade and Closing Remarks
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The Hebron Maple Festival culminates on Sunday with the much-anticipated tractor parade, now in its 10th year. Over 150 tractors are expected to participate in the parade, which starts at 2 p.m. Before the parade, the tractors will be displayed at the Village Shoppes/Ted's Supermarket parking lot.
( Credit to: Courant )
Hebron Town Manager Andrew Tierney encourages everyone to attend the festival and enjoy the festivities, emphasizing that it will be a fantastic event not to be missed.
The Hebron Maple Festival truly embodies the spirit of community, celebrating the art of maple sugaring while supporting local organizations. It is a weekend filled with tradition, education, and entertainment for all ages. So mark your calendars and join in the maple-filled fun in Hebron!