National Maple Syrup Festivals Draws Producers From Around The Country

Medora, IN – The National Maple Syrup Festival will once again bring makers from every syrup producing state in the country together for a good cause. The delicious smells and sweet tastes will abound during the first two weekends in March in southern Indiana.

2013 marks the fifth year of the National Maple Syrup Festival. All the profits from the annual Indiana event are donated to Heads Up, the Craniofacial Anomalies Program at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. The maple syrup event blends a culinary challenge judge by professional chefs with a bit of history. Visitors learn the art of syrup making as it was once done by Native Americans and early settlers.

Many of the maple syrup event takes place on the secluded Burton Maplewood Farm. Each year more than 700 maple trees are tapped for artisan barrel-aged syrup creations. The man dubbed the “world’s greatest pancake flipper” by the Guinness Book of World Records will also be on hand showing off his skills.

The Sweet Victory Challenge is the highlight of the event and is sponsored by King Arthur Flour. The baking flour is reportedly a favorite of bakers who prefer to stay away from chemical additives, Inside Indiana Business reports. King Arthur is the oldest flour company in America and has been employee-owned since 1996.

Sampling the maple syrup varieties offered by producers from throughout the country is all part of the tasty fun at the free event. Concessions are, of course, a staple as any type of festival. The National Maple Syrup Festival goes beyond the typical hot dog and hamburger offerings. Common menu items stay reflect the Indiana festival theme. Offerings visitors to the event can choose from include maple pork chops and maple baked beans – and, of course, tons of pancakes.

Visitors who want to walk off their morning meal can enjoy some Bluegrass music, historical re-enactments, and the handmade works of crafters and artisans from around the state.

Do you think the National Maple Syrup Festival sounds like a good time?

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