From March 8 to April 6, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) welcomed thousands of visitors to the 2025 Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival, held at both Kortright Centre for Conservation and Bruce’s Mill Conservation Park. Surrounded by the rich aroma of boiling sap and a canopy of sugar maples, guests were invited to experience the heritage and charm of one of Canada’s most iconic traditions.
Families, students, and curious visitors wandered along syrup-scented trails, watched sap boil over open fires, and explored the history of maple syrup, from Indigenous innovations and early settler techniques to today’s modern, sustainable practices. The science of this sweet sap was brought to life through interactive displays, guided demonstrations by costumed educators, and conversations with TRCA’s passionate staff.
This year’s festival welcomed more than 25,000 attendees across both sites.
The official launch took place at Kortright Centre, featuring opening remarks by Darryl Gray, TRCA’s Director of Education and Training. Emceed by TRCA’s Adrian O’Driscoll, Senior Manager of Community Outreach and Education, the event welcomed special guests including Christina Basil, Vice President of Communications and Government Relations at 407 ETR, a proud sponsor of the festival, as well as Anna Roberts, Member of Parliament for King—Vaughan, and Anna-Louise Richardson, Chair of the Regional Watershed Alliance.
In his remarks, Darryl Gray emphasized the importance of celebrating locally sourced products and highlighted the festival’s role in environmental education and community connection. He also acknowledged the support of 407 ETR for sponsoring one of the event’s most beloved attractions: the horse-drawn wagon rides, offered free of charge for all to enjoy.
For more than 45 years, TRCA has been tapping trees and inviting the community to share in this seasonal celebration. In recognition of that legacy, MP Anna Roberts presented TRCA with a certificate of achievement for promoting a cherished Canadian tradition and strengthening community ties.
For many residents of the Greater Toronto Area, the festival has become an annual tradition, an opportunity to mark the changing seasons, reconnect with nature, and enjoy time outdoors with loved ones.
This year’s event featured live entertainment, delicious treats like pancakes, and, of course, the ever-popular wagon rides. Families with young children delighted in sampling fresh syrup, sharing sweet moments, and creating memories to last a lifetime.
With the close of another seaason, TRCA extends heartfelt thanks to all attendees, staff, volunteers, and partners who helped make the 2025 Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival such a success.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back next spring to celebrate Ontario’s sweetest season once again.