Spring in Canada is all about sweet treats and cherished family traditions. It’s the perfect time to escape, breathe in the fresh country air, and create warm memories together. Here are our must-try activities to celebrate sugar season, while staying well-equipped to enjoy every moment!
🍁 Visit a Traditional Sugar Shack
There’s nothing like visiting a sugar shack to experience the authentic charm of sugar season. In addition to enjoying a typical meal — split pea soup, maple ham, crispy pork rinds, and of course, maple taffy on snow — you’ll get to learn more about how maple syrup is made, thanks to passionate maple syrup producers.
Smart tip: The days can still be chilly at this time of year, especially in the woods! Choose a good 3-in-1 jacket (girl and boy) or a lightweight puffer (girl and boy) to stay cozy without feeling bulky. And for the kids, a waterproof and windproof jacket (girl and boy) is perfect, so they can run around freely without worrying about muddy splashes.
🥾 Forest Walk to See Tree Tapping
Head out to explore the maple groves with a guided or self-guided walk along marked trails. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see how maple sap is collected, all while enjoying the invigorating early spring air. With a bit of luck, you might even spot some curious squirrels or early spring birds!
Bonus tip: For this activity, be sure to wear waterproof boots and comfortable clothing that protects against the cool breeze. Windbreakers (girl and boy) and water-repellent pants are perfect for walking along the sometimes-muddy trails of the sugar bush.
🍬 Make Your Own Maple Taffy on Snow
Recreate the magic of maple taffy at home! Heat your maple syrup to the ideal temperature (between 237°F and 240°F for approximately 20 minutes), pour it over clean snow (or crushed ice if you're in the city), and enjoy this traditional sweet treat.
Family tip: This activity can get a little messy, especially with eager kids! Plan ahead with clothes that are easy to clean, like washable jackets and durable outer layers, so everyone can fully enjoy the experience without worrying about sticky spills.
🧺 Plan a Sweet Outdoor Picnic
Take advantage of the first mild days of spring to plan a delicious outdoor picnic. Pack your basket with some sugar season classics: maple-glazed ham sandwiches, crunchy coleslaw, and why not add some blueberry and maple syrup muffins?
Style and comfort: Even if the sun is shining, the temperatures can still be cool! A good thermal base layer under a lightweight windbreaker (girl and boy) will be your best ally. For the little ones, don’t forget light hats and gloves to keep them nice and warm while they enjoy their treats.
🎨 Get Creative with Maple-Themed Crafts
Keep the magic going at home with creative activities inspired by sugar season. Make maple leaf-shaped decorations, create scented candles, or give the kids a maple grove coloring sheet to bring the theme to life.
Cozy vibes: Settle in comfortably indoors with soft, warm clothing to keep the cozy feeling going. A good wool sweater and thick socks are perfect for a creative family afternoon.
📸 Create a Sugar Season Memory Album
Capture these precious moments! Take photos of your day at the sugar shack, those syrup-covered smiles, your forest walks, and your delicious picnic. Then, put them together in a beautiful album to flip through all year long.
Practical tip: Even for a casual photo session, think about wearing bright or natural-colored clothing that complements the spring scenery. Warm tones like mustard yellow, forest green, or soft orange will add a pop of color to your memory-filled snapshots!
Sugar season is the perfect time to slow down, enjoy life’s simple pleasures, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. No matter which activities you choose, don’t forget to dress appropriately so you can savor every moment in comfort and cheer!