Maple Fest

Stories shared from the perspective of our staff, volunteers, and community.

Revel in the magic of maple season!

Sample maple beer, tour the sugarbush, watch the process, and take part in games
and maple-themed activities that are sure to be fun for all ages.

Tickets on sale now!

Purchase Tickets

Tickets on Sale Now!

Saturday, February 15 and 22, 1–5 pm at Rowe Woods

Highlights of this year's event include:

• Cozy up in the Sugar House to get a firsthand look at how we turn sap into maple syrup.

• Sample warm maple syrup and other goodies made with nature's liquid gold.

• Enjoy an alcoholic beverage or sample maple beer made exclusively for Maple Fest in partnership with Madtree Brewing.

• Sip on complimentary bourbon samples. Nothing pairs better with maple syrups than bourbon!

• Join in games and activities that tell the tale of syrup making.

• Take a guided stroll through the sugarbush and get up close and personal with our treasured grove of sugar maples.

Sugarbush hikes traverse about one mile of relatively flat, even trails. They will depart at various time slots throughout the day and each will last approximately 30 minutes.

• Enjoy lunch from local food trucks or grab a cup of decadent hot cocoa!

• Purchase a bottle of local maple syrup and other maple goods at the Maple Shop.

Note: Select complimentary food and alcohol samples are included in the ticket price, with additional food and drink available for purchase. Cash and credit cards will both be accepted for purchases.

To enjoy free alcohol samples or to purchase alcohol, you must be 21+ and present your valid ID at Registration to receive an alcohol wristband.

Please note: Pets are not permitted at any Cincinnati Nature Center program or event.

‍Member adult $20; member child $6; nonmember adult $20; nonmember child $6.

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This event is generously sponsored by:

Silver Maple Sponsor

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For a full list of event sponsorship benefits and information, please contact Kylee Alter at kalter@cincynature.org or call (513) 965-4249.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this event be held outdoors?

Yes! This event will be held almost entirely outdoors. Please bundle up and be prepared for the unpredictable February weather. 

Can I bring my dog?

No. Service animals only, please.

What ages is the event appropriate for?

This event is fun for all ages. Bring the whole family to enjoy this special time of year! Only adults 21 years and older can enjoy the adult beverages. 

Do I have to stay the whole time?

No. This event is open-house style. You may come any time after 1 pm. There will be plenty to do, so you are free to enjoy the experience at your own pace.

Is the trail difficult?

No. Most of this event will take place on flat, even ground. There will be optional activities in the sugarbush which will involve a short hike on easily navigable terrain.  Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome. 

Do I have to purchase a ticket?

Yes. Preregistration is required.  We expect this event to sell out; reserve your tickets early!

Will there be parking at this event?

Yes. Parking at the Nature Center is always free. Please keep in mind, Cincinnati Nature Center will be open to the public on these days. On nice winter days, we experience large crowds. You may have to park in an alternate lot and take a short walk to where the event takes place. 

Can I explore other areas of the Nature Center outside of where the program will take place?

Yes! The ticket for this event includes daily admission to the Nature Center. We would love it if you enjoyed other parts of our property. Be advised, the Nature Center closes at 6 pm in February, so all guests are expected to leave the property by this time.