Fun on Tap at the Wakarusa Maple Syrup Festival

Americans have been sweet on maple syrup since American Indians first taught settlers the sugaring process.

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Though small, Indiana syrup production is an active industry supported by communities such as Wakarusa, which showcases the product at an annual festival.

Wakarusa’s annual Maple Syrup Festival, which takes place April 22-24, 2016 will draw an estimated 16,000 visitors. The educational event reflects the town’s cultural heritage, says Deb Shively, executive secretary for the Wakarusa Chamber of Commerce, which sponsors the event.

“This is a celebration of who we are, and the community comes together to support this each year,” she says.” Although it’s evolved and gotten bigger, the festival still is based on the educational aspect.”

Amish residents Eli Kuhns and Wilbur Miller, sugar camp owners/operators, have volunteered as sugaring demonstrators for more than 12 years, Shively says.

The festival features Lions Club and PTO all-you-can-eat meals (pancake/sausage and barbecue, respectively), the Wakarusa Library book sale, a parade, craft booths, games, rides and other forms of entertainment for all ages.

SEE ALSO: Indiana Maple Syrup Festivals

In conjunction with the Wakarusa Maple Syrup Festival, the local historical society will host its annual Education Days from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 25-28. Free tours, geared to school and social services groups, include a visit to the Wakarusa Historical Museum, maple syrup demonstrations, a stroll through historic downtown and free kettle corn near the downtown playground.

For more details on Education Days, call the Wakarusa Chamber of Commerce at (574) 862-4344. Early registration is recommended.