On 3/3/24 West Essex AYLUS members volunteered at the Reeves Maple Surge Festival.
Maple Magic: Exploring Maple Sugaring at Reeves-Reed Arboretum
SUMMIT, NJ Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through the sweet wonders of maple sugaring at Reeves-Reed Arboretum. In celebration of nature’s bounty and the cherished tradition of turning sap into liquid gold, the Arboretum will be hosting a delightful Maple Sugaring Festival on Sunday, March 3, 2024, that promises fun, education, and a taste of pure sweetness.
The day’s activities will include exploring the Arboretum’s woodland trails, partaking in the Maple Sugaring Challenge, demonstrations and activities, a winter story trail and art exhibit, hot cocoa, maple vendors, and more! By taking part in the Maple Sugaring Challenge guests will learn all the steps and techniques needed to turn sap into delicious maple syrup. Families will tour the historic grounds, stopping and learning at ten different stations covering topics including identifying maple trees, how to collect sap, as well as syrup grading where you will have the chance to taste test several types of maple syrup. Make sure you don’t miss this delicious stop on the challenge trail!
“Maple sugaring is a time-honored tradition that connects us with nature’s bounty and the beauty of the changing seasons,” shared Jackie Kondel, Executive Director of Reeves-Reed Arboretum. “We are thrilled to share this experience with our community and foster a deeper appreciation for our natural surroundings. As we celebrate our 50th year as a public arboretum, we look forward to hosting community events such as this as we continue to engage, educate, and inspire the local community through nature.”
The Arboretum’s Maple Sugaring Fest will take place on Sunday, March 3, 2024, from 1 – 4 pm at 165 Hobart Avenue in Summit. Admission is free for Reeves-Reed Arboretum members and children three and under; Non-members are $5 per person. This event is made possible in part by Title Sponsor Price Group/ Compass Realty, Silver Sponsor John Hyatt Clothing, and Bronze Sponsor Fisk Foto.
West Essex members (4 hours each): Aily Wei, Jennie (zihua) Zhang, Ella Chai, Zoe Leung, Jeremiah Au, Jarret Lee, Ava Lee, Richard Dong, Scott Yao
