Maple Syrup Festival

Maple Syrup Festival on March 21-22, 2026

Join us for two full days of family fun at the Maple Syrup Festival! This exciting event has something for everyone, including maple syrup-making demonstrations, guided nature hikes, lumberjack demonstrations, kids’ activities, vendors, artisans, and so much more. Admission to the festival is free, and nearly all activities—like demonstrations, nature hikes, and children’s programming— from 9 AM to 4 PM are included at no additional cost.

Maple Syrup Festival Pancake Breakfast

Enjoy a freshly prepared pancake breakfast served from 9 AM to 2 PM, complete with 100% real maple syrup. Tickets for the pancake breakfast can be purchased in advance or onsite at Freeberg Hall.

$15 - Ages 11 and up
$8 - SIU students with valid student ID
$8 - Ages 4-10
Free - Ages 3 and under

Pre-registration Coming Soon

About Our Festival

Event Schedule
Pancake Breakfast
9 AM - 2 PM

Maple Syrup Process
On-going daily

Maple Syrup Demos
Meet at Lions Pavilion for demos both days. 10 AM, 11 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM

Lumberjack Games
Saturday and Sunday. Shows start at 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM

Climbing Wall*
10 AM - 12 PM, 12:30 PM - 3 PM - Weather Permitting

Giant Swing*
10 AM - 12:30 PM, 1 PM - 3 PM - Weather Permitting

Bar & Grill
11 AM - 3 PM

Live Music
Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM-3:30 PM

Children's Activities
9:30 AM - 3:30 PM

*Denotes activities that have an additional fee.
Volunteer Opportunities
2026 Volunteer Registration Coming Winter 2025
Our festival would not be possible without our amazing volunteers! Volunteers at Maple Syrup Festival include assist with serving pancakes, clearing and cleaning tables, running small kid's activities and more. All volunteers are also eligible for a complimentary pancake breakfast at the beginning of their shift!

Volunteers who sign-up agree to the Touch of Nature Volunteer Code of Conduct.
Vendors
Discover the bustling vendor alley filled with treasures for every member of the family. Browse handmade crafts, shop for unique gifts, and savor delicious local treats. Whether you’re searching for a keepsake, craving something sweet, or just looking for a fun day out, our vendors have something for everyone.

Make memories, shop local, and celebrate the sweetness of spring at the Maple Syrup Festival.

Vendor applications are opening Winter 2025.
Demonstrations
Experience the excitement of live demonstrations at the Maple Syrup Festival! Watch the SIU Forestry Club’s lumberjack skills, and witness and explore hands-on crafts like pottery and ropemaking. There’s something to inspire and amaze every member of the family.

Think your skills could add to the festival? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us at ton@siu.edu to join our talented lineup. Celebrate creativity and tradition with us this spring!