By Blake Jackson
The Great New York State Fair is spotlight on one of the state’s agricultural traditions with the return of Maple Day, taking place today, Monday, August 25. Sponsored by the New York State Maple Producers Association, the event offers visitors a chance to sample pure New York maple syrup while also learning about the state’s thriving maple industry. From hands-on education to irresistible maple treats, Maple Day has become a must-visit for fairgoers.
“Maple is New York’s first agricultural crop so its so fitting to have a day dedicated to maple at The New York State Fair. We are proud of our maple industry and its producers who continue to innovate and produce some of the very best and unique products," said New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball.
"I look forward to checking out the Maple Experience mobile classroom and hearing from our FFA officers who will be providing demonstrations to fairgoers, educating them about the maple production process and giving them a chance to sample the sweet goodness of pure New York maple syrup.”
“Maple Day at the Fair is a fun way to introduce our visitors to delicious maple syrup and unique maple products and have them learn something about this sweet agricultural commodity along the way," State Fair Director Julie LaFave said.
"We’re proud to join the New York State Maple Producers Association in bringing back Maple Day again this year and look forward to trying some of my maple favorites!”
The Maple Experience mobile classroom, a 24-foot interactive trailer, teaches visitors how maple syrup is made, from tapping trees to evaporation. FFA students from Morrisville Central School and state maple competition winners are leading demonstrations, with syrup tastings included.
In the Horticulture Building, fairgoers can enjoy maple ice cream, donuts, cotton candy, popcorn, and this year’s new addition maple cinnamon buns.
New York, the nation’s second-largest maple producer, saw record-breaking production in 2024 with 846,000 gallons. With over 2,000 sugar makers and the country’s largest supply of tappable trees, the state continues to grow its maple legacy.
The Fair runs through Labor Day, September 1, with admission at $8 and all concerts included. For more information visit, nysfair.ny.gov.
Photo Credit: ny-state-fair
Categories: New York, Business