Maple sugaring days at Naper Settlement

With all the cold weather in our area, it is hard to see the good behind it. But the cold, freezing weather has been a blessing to the maple trees in our area.

Naper Settlement is celebrating a Spring ritual with Maple Sugaring Days March 13 and 14.

During Maple Sugaring Days, attendees will learn how the early Naper settlers tapped Maple trees for their sap. The tree sap can be transformed into maple syrup. After learning about the techniques, guests can sample a maple shaved ice treat.

In the late 1800s, Maple sugaring was an integral part of American life. Maple sugar was the primary sweetener used by American through the Civil War. It was readily available and less expensive than cane sugar.

With the arrival of spring, communities would gather to sap from the maple trees. It was a festive event that offset the hard work of collecting and processing the sap.

Maple Sugaring Days will be held Saturday March 13 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday March 14, 1-4 p.m. Admission for Maple Sugaring Days is $9 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $6.50 youth (4-17). Naperville Heritage Society members and Season Pass Holders receive free admission.

In addition to Maple Sugaring Days, Naper Settlement has several more family events in the month of March.

Sunday, March 14 HISTORY SPEAKS LECTURE SERIES - From Auld (Old) Sod to New Prairie: The Irish in America. Lee Murdock uses songs and stories to tell the history of Irish immigrants in Illinois. Through historical songs and modern ballads, Murdock examines how Irishmen built canals, towns and railroads and built a community in their new land. Tickets to the lecture are $5 in advance, at the door $7 for adults and $6 for students and children.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 18, 19 & 20 WEED LADIES SPRING SHOW AND SALE
The well know Weed Ladies will be offering their one-of-a-kind seasonal arrangements and dried bouquets. Thursday 1-7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission to the sale is free.

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