Saturday and Sunday, March 13 & 14, 2010

During late winter and early spring, great fluctuations in temperatures―freezing nights and warm days―allows sap to rise from the roots of maple trees. During Maple Sugaring Days, you'll see how the early settlers of Naperville tapped maple trees and then turned the sap into maple syrup. Visit the historic buildings to find out more about life in the past. Try a tasty maple shaved ice treat as you enjoy this a memorable event the entire family will savor.

Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m.

$9 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $6.50 youth (4-17).
Naperville Heritage Society members and Season Pass Holders receive free admission.

More fun all weekend:

• Tree tapping demonstrations

• Learn to dance the Virginia Reel with live music

• Building tours with special information and activites in each building

• Ice Block Relays

• Live music

• Try out the Yoke and Bucket Station

• Stamping activity in the Print Shop

• Corn grinding and carding wool try-it stations at the Log House

• Leaf rubbing activity a the Halfway House

• Stories in the School House

• Listen to the Victrola at the Mansion

• See the sap boiling in the Fort

• Taste a maple syrup snow cone in the Tavern

• Try your hand at Geocaching ($1 additional to rent GPS or bring your own)

• Pick up a free maple sugar recipe booklet in the Museum Store

• Mik's Tasty Bites will be selling mini donuts and hot chocolate
  

The history of maple sugaring

Maple sugaring was an integral part of American life in the 1800s and was the foremost sweetener until the end of the Civil War. A community social event celebrating the arrival of spring, the difficult work involving in collecting and processing the sap required many hands. This festive gathering was a welcome diversion following a long winter. Until the end of the Civil War, maple products were the most important food sweeteners in the United States because they were far less expensive and more available than cane sugar.

All Events and Programs Subject to Change Without Notice.  Special Event Rates Vary