LUCAS, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The 49th Annual Maple Syrup Festival at Malabar Farm State Park will lead a series of statewide celebrations as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) marks the start of the 2026 maple sugaring season.
Throughout March, visitors are invited to four Ohio State Parks to experience the sights, smells, and flavors of a tradition that dates back generations.
“Maple syrup season is a special time in Ohio,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “These festivals offer a fun way for families to get outside, learn how syrup is made, and connect with the natural and cultural traditions of our state.”
Malabar Farm State Park will host its festival on March 7, 8, 14, and 15 from noon to 4 p.m. The event features a sugar camp with both historic and modern syrup-making demonstrations, horse-drawn wagon rides, and a self-guided tour of the historic “Big House.”
Other featured parks include:
- Hueston Woods State Park: Hosting its 59th annual festival March 7-8 and 14-15. Activities include scenic hayrides to the “Big Woods” nature preserve and a pancake breakfast buffet at the lodge ($10 for adults; $8 for children).
- Hocking Hills State Park: “Maple Sugaring in the Hills” takes place March 14 and 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the naturalist cabin behind the Old Man’s Cave visitor center.
- Indian Lake State Park: The season concludes here on March 21 and 22 with a pancake and sausage breakfast served by the Indian Lake Development Corporation ($8 for adults; $4 for children).
While festival admission is free, ODNR officials encourage visitors to bring cash to support local vendors and purchase Ohio-made maple products.