Maple Syrup Season Returns to Ohio

Maple syrup festivals and events are back across the state, celebrating the annual tradition.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Maple syrup season is in full swing in Ohio, with a variety of festivals and events taking place across the state to celebrate the annual tradition of tapping maple trees and producing pure maple syrup. From pancake breakfasts to live demonstrations, these festivals offer the public a chance to experience the history and process of maple sugaring.

Why it matters

Maple syrup production is an important part of Ohio's agricultural heritage, with the state ranking seventh nationally in maple syrup production. These festivals help preserve this tradition while also providing economic benefits to local communities through tourism and sales of maple products.

The details

Maple syrup festivals are being held at several Ohio state parks, including Hocking Hills, Hueston Woods, Malabar Farm, and Indian Lake. The events feature live demonstrations on the process of transforming maple sap into syrup, as well as opportunities to purchase maple products and enjoy pancake breakfasts. Other maple festivals are also taking place in Northeast Ohio, such as the Geauga County Maple Festival and events hosted by Lake Metroparks, Cleveland Metroparks, Geauga Parks, and Summit Metro Parks.

  • Maple syrup season typically runs from late February through early April in Ohio, when freezing nights and warmer days cause the sap to flow.
  • The Hale Farm & Village Maple Syrup Festival & Pancake Breakfast will be held on March 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29.
  • The Hocking Hills State Park Maple Sugaring in the Hills event will take place on March 14 and 15.
  • The Hueston Woods State Park 59th Annual Maple Syrup Festival will be held on March 7, 8, 14 and 15.
  • The Malabar Farm State Park 49th Annual Maple Syrup Festival is scheduled for March 7, 8, 14 and 15.

The players

Stephanie Lero

The executive director of Hale Farm & Village in Bath Township, Ohio.

Hale Farm & Village

A historic village in Bath Township, Ohio that has hosted an annual Maple Syrup Festival & Pancake Breakfast for centuries.

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What they’re saying

“It's just fun to see everyone gather and come out of the winter abyss that we had. It's a great tradition in the spring.”

— Stephanie Lero, Executive Director, Hale Farm & Village (thesuburbanite.com)

The takeaway

Maple syrup production is a cherished tradition in Ohio, and the return of maple syrup festivals each spring provides an opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate this agricultural heritage. These events offer a glimpse into the history and process of maple sugaring while also supporting local economies through the sale of maple products.