Maple farms across New York State are welcoming visitors Saturday (March 21) and Sunday (March 22) for the first of two Maple Weekend events celebrating the state’s first agricultural harvest of the season. The annual tradition, organized by the New York State Maple Producers’ Association, offers families a chance to experience sugarmaking firsthand and taste pure maple syrup directly from the source.
Most participating farms will open their doors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, offering free tours and product samples. Visitors can watch sap transform into syrup, explore sugarhouses with traditional wood-fired evaporators and modern equipment, and sample maple confections including syrup, cream, and candies. Some locations will also feature pancake breakfasts, though those may carry a separate charge.
New York ranks second in the nation for maple syrup production, generating 829,000 gallons in 2025. The state’s maple producers have hosted variations of this event since 1995, when it began as a single “Maple Sunday.” The tradition has since expanded to four days across two weekends each March.
Western New York farms are among the many locations preparing for the weekend, offering hands-on activities and behind-the-scenes looks at maple production. The New York State Maple Producers’ Association recommends visitors dress in layers and wear closed-toe footwear, as March weather remains unpredictable and farm locations can be rustic and muddy.
An interactive map of participating farms is available on the Maple Weekend website. Tours and tastings showcase sustainable agricultural practices while connecting visitors with the producers who maintain New York’s maple traditions.
The second Maple Weekend of 2026 takes place March 28 and 29, providing another opportunity for families to experience maple season activities. The event receives funding from both association members and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.