Celebrate the Sweetness of Ohio Maple Month

March is here, and if you’re in Ohio, you know what that means—it’s time for Ohio Maple Month! This annual tradition celebrates the art (and science) of maple syrup making. It’s your chance to learn about the process, support local producers, and, of course, enjoy the sweet taste of pure maple syrup. Who doesn’t love that?

A Sweet History Lesson

Let’s take it back for a second. Did you know maple syrup production has been a thing in Ohio for centuries? It started with Indigenous peoples who figured out how to boil sap into syrup. Later, settlers picked up the technique and ran with it. Today, Ohio is one of the top maple syrup producers in the U.S., thanks to our ideal climate and abundance of sugar maple trees. Pretty cool, right?

What’s Happening During Ohio Maple Month

There’s a ton of fun stuff going on during Ohio Maple Month, and trust me, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few highlights you’ll want to check out:

1. Sugarhouse Tours

Ever wondered how maple syrup gets made? Lots of local producers open their sugarhouses to visitors so you can see the process up close. From tapping trees to boiling sap in those big evaporators, it’s a behind-the-scenes look you won’t forget.

2. Maple Syrup Tastings

Okay, here’s the fun part: tasting! You’ll get to try different grades of syrup, from light and mild to dark and rich. Some producers even offer fancy flavors like bourbon barrel-aged maple syrup. Yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds.

4. Maple Goodies Galore

Syrup is just the start. Many places sell maple candies, maple cream, and all sorts of maple-infused treats. Stock up so you can enjoy a little taste of Ohio Maple Month all year long.

Why Supporting Local Producers Matters

Here’s the deal: buying local maple syrup isn’t just about getting delicious syrup (though that’s a huge perk). You’re also supporting hardworking families who keep this age-old tradition alive. At our bed & breakfast, we proudly use only local maple syrup, so every piece of candied bacon you enjoy comes with a little taste of Ohio's heritage. So when you grab that bottle of Ohio-made maple syrup, you’re helping to sustain local businesses and preserve a piece of our state’s heritage.

Fun Maple Facts

• Did you know it takes about 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of syrup? Crazy, right?

• Maple syrup is packed with good stuff like antioxidants, zinc, and manganese. So yeah, it’s sweet and good for you.

• The maple season in Ohio usually runs from late February to early April, depending on the weather. So get out there while it lasts!

Ohio Maple Month is the perfect excuse to get outside, learn something new, and indulge in some seriously good eats. This March, take a trip to a sugarbush, meet some local producers, and treat yourself to the magic of fresh maple syrup. Trust me, once you’ve had the real stuff, there’s no going back. Enjoy the sweetness, Ohio!