Maple tree tapping returns to Vanier Museopark

Every year, the Vanier Museopark seeks the help of the community to take part in an essential step in the production of maple syrup at its sugar shack: maple tree tapping.

The Vanier Sugar Shack is the only operating sugar shack in an urban setting in Canada. Young and old, families, couples and friends are invited to come to the Richelieu Park forest to tap sugar maple trees in the traditional way: drilling holes in the trees, inserting spigots and hanging buckets to collect maple water, the tree’s sweet sap.

The maple sap will be harvested later in the spring, when the days are warmer and the nights are still cold. It will then be boiled for several hours to be transformed into maple syrup, a golden, amber and deliciously sweet liquid!

Here’s some information to help you make the most of your community tapping experience:

• no reservation required, just show up between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. on Saturday, February 15

• please bring a wireless drill and charged batteries if you can;

• dress appropriately for the weather;

• a quick training session on tree tapping and forest orientation will be offered every hour on the hour;

• pea soup will be served at the Vanier Sugar Shack after the tree tapping event to thank our participants for their efforts!

There’s limited free parking at Centre Richelieu-Vanier (300des Pères-Blancs Ave. in Vanier). Take the pathway near the library to get directly to the sugar shack.

Take advantage of the Family Day long weekend to take part in this unique activity that combines old-fashioned tradition and winter fun!

What: Community maple tree tapping event at the Vanier Museopark
When: Saturday, February 15 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Annick Normand is communications manager with Vanier Museopark.