Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival returns this weekend with sweet traditions and new attractions

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

BROCK: The 29th annual Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival is set to bring the sweet taste of tradition back to the heart of Sunderland, on Saturday, April 11th, and Sunday, April 12th.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., each day, visitors can take in a full weekend of maple-themed festivities, including: a bustling outdoor vendor market, live entertainment, hands-on demonstrations, and family-friendly attractions spread throughout the community.

“The Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival is a highlight of the year for our community,” said festival chair Angela Canavan. “It’s a time to showcase local businesses, bring families together, and, of course, enjoy the best maple syrup around.”

Attracting more than 10,000 visitors annually, the festival remains the largest event in the Township of Brock, offering something for all ages. Streets throughout the downtown core will once again be lined with vendors, selling handcrafted goods, baked treats, and locally produced maple syrup.

A staple of the weekend, the pancake breakfast, at the Royal Canadian Legion Sunderland Branch, will run from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. both days, serving up stacks of pancakes topped with locally produced syrup.

Live entertainment will keep the energy high throughout the weekend, with a full stage schedule. Saturday’s lineup includes: Johnny Barrons, the Legion Line Dancers, Lexy The Rap Dad, Rough Patch Kids, Those Guys, and Shoemaker Levee, along with opening ceremonies mid-morning. Sunday will feature performances by the Brian Wride Trio, Silver & Strings, West & Mac, The Twangsters, and Johnny with no Cash, with multiple appearances from crowd favourite Lexy The Rap Dad across both days.

“There’s a real effort each year to bring in a variety of performers which appeal to all ages,” said festival secretary Ryan Williams. “Whether you’re here for the music, the food, or the family activities, there’s always something happening.”

Interactive and educational experiences continue to be a major draw. Visitors can take bus tours to Harlaine Maple Products, to see maple syrup production firsthand, with tickets available at Sunderland Public School. The school will also host a book sale, indoor vendors, children’s entertainment, and activities, including balloon twisting and face painting.

Festival-goers can also enjoy blacksmithing demonstrations, by John Walker of Fallen Willow Forge, wildlife presentations from Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue, and a draft horse display. New and returning attractions at the arena include the 'Blades of Glory' live show, along with a petting zoo and pony rides, hosted by Tiger Paw Exotics.

Outdoor demonstrations and community events will take place throughout the weekend, including the popular bathtub races, on Saturday afternoon, along River Street, and a lawn tractor pull demonstration, on Sunday, organized with support from 4-H Ontario. A Northern Stoker biomass heating demonstration will also run Saturday, at Northern Metalworks.

Community groups will be serving up a wide range of food options across the festival, including: peameal-on-a-bun; barbecue, hosted by local firefighters; and comfort food offerings. St. Andrew’s United Church and Grace Baptist Church will provide warming centres and refreshments for visitors, throughout the weekend.

“The festival continues to grow, but it never loses its small-town feel,” Ms. Canavan added. “It’s about celebrating our agricultural roots, supporting local, and creating memories for families, year after year.”

Due to large crowds, road closures will be in effect within the festival area, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., on both days. Only emergency vehicles will be permitted, and attendees are encouraged to park outside the downtown core and walk in.

As preparations wrap up, organizers say they are excited to welcome both returning visitors and newcomers, for another memorable weekend.

“We’re proud of what this festival represents,” Mr. Williams said. “It’s community spirit at its best, and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone come out and enjoy it.”

For a full schedule of events and more information, visit maplesyrupfestival.ca or follow the festival on social media.