Sunday, March 17, 1 p.m.—MIDDLETOWN SPRINGS—Maple lore and demonstrations, sweet treats from local kitchens, a raffle and a silent auction featuring local artists and craftspersons, merchants, and professionals highlight the 31st annual Maple Festival of the Middletown Springs Historical Society on Sunday, March 17 from 1-4 p.m.
The event will feature a demonstration of early maple sugarmaking in a cast iron kettle over an open fire by Phillip Mahar. Local sugarmaker Ryan Mahar and historians David Wright and Jon Mathewson will give a presentation on maple sugaring history and current practice using examples from the Historical Society collection.
Homemade soup, chili and maple desserts created by Historical Society members, Vermont maple products, and new 2019 syrup will be available for sale. Old-fashioned sugar on snow, pancakes and syrup, and maple cotton candy are always favorites.
Acoustic music by Paul Morgan and friends, and kids’ activities enliven the free afternoon event. Videos about Vermont maple sugaring will be shown continuously.
Silent auction offers include Killington ski and golf passes; 100 gallons of heating oil; genealogical research; lessons and services by local professionals; a wine and cheese basket; a Cabot cheese basket; potted flowers; a homemade quilt as well as other fine craft items; homemade pies; maple syrup; a Vermont Teddy Bear; dining gift certificates and other donations from area businesses.
A raffle drawing with many prizes including $100 and $50 in cash, maple syrup and maple products, craft items, and gift certificates will go on during the festival. Museum exhibits on Middletown Springs history will be on display during the festival.
Admission is free.
The historical society is located at 4 Park Ave., Middletown Springs. For more information, call 802-235-2376 or 802-235-2421.
