The 54th Belmore Maple Syrup Festival has kicked off with a burst of community spirit and traditional festivities.
The festival, a beloved annual event, is hosted at the Belmore Community Centre, celebrating the rich heritage of maple syrup production and offering a range of activities for visitors of all ages.
The origins of this cherished festival date back to 1968 when the community came together to raise funds for a new roof for the Community Centre, built in 1951. The idea of hosting a Maple Syrup Festival was born, and local families tapped roadside maples to collect sap, which was then processed into delicious maple syrup. The inaugural festival attracted around 1,800 attendees and successfully raised funds for the much-needed roof replacement.
Over the years, the festival has grown in popularity and significance, becoming a symbol of Belmore's unique spirit and unity. Today, the festival continues to be organized and run by approximately 300 dedicated community volunteers, showcasing the commitment and passion of Belmore residents to preserve their traditions and heritage.
"The wet weather is a bit of a problem today (Thursday), but we're dry indoors," said volunteer Barry Mulvey. There's entertainment and craft vendors, something for everybody. There's live music, too."
The festival offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors. On "Seniors Day," which falls on Thursday, April 11, attendees can enjoy a pancake meal served from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., along with local live music, a craft show, a euchre tournament, and booths featuring maple syrup products and pork sausages.
Saturday, April 13, marks the main day of festivities, with pancake meals served from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., live music, a craft show, and various booths offering maple syrup products and pork sausages. The day also features exciting entertainment for kids, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere of the event.
Notable attractions include a maple syrup demonstration, outdoor activities, and a play area running from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, the festival boasts a "Pub Day" starting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, offering refreshments and live entertainment.
Belmore, often described as a "Hamlet with a Heart," is home to around 100 residents and sits at the crossroads of Howick, Turnberry, Culross, and Carrick townships. The community's enduring commitment to its traditions and values shines through in the annual Maple Syrup Festival, a testament to the spirit of togetherness and pride that defines Belmore.
"We feel it's like a homecoming every year," Mulvey added. "People come from all over. We see a lot of people here today that come back year after year."
Admission to all events at the Belmore Community Centre is free, and courtesy vans are available for transportation. The centre is wheelchair accessible, with designated handicap parking and senior parking assistance provided.
More information can be found at belmorecommunitycentre.ca/belmore-maple-syrup-festival
