Maine Maple Sunday is the sweetest tradition in the state and the unofficial kickoff to spring. Held annually on the fourth Sunday in March, it’s a day when sugarhouses across Maine open their doors to the public, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how maple syrup is made—along with plenty of free samples.

When Is It?

Maine Maple Sunday is officially the fourth Sunday in March.

2026 Dates: Weekend of March 21-22.

While Sunday is the official day, many sugarhouses celebrate the entire weekend, calling it “Maine Maple Weekend.” Some larger operations even host events throughout the month of March.

What to Expect

Visiting a sugarhouse on Maple Sunday is a sensory experience. You’ll smell the sweet, caramel-like aroma of boiling sap before you even step inside.

Demonstrations: Watch the evaporator in action as clear, watery sap is boiled down into amber syrup. Farmers love explaining the science and art of the process.
Free Samples: The highlight for most! Expect small cups of warm syrup, often served over vanilla ice cream.
Sugarbush Tours: Walk through the woods (the “sugarbush”) to see the tubing systems and tapped trees.
Pancake Breakfasts: Many local fire departments, granges, and Rotary clubs host pancake breakfasts nearby to support the event.
Family Fun: Larger farms often have hayrides, petting zoos, and live music.

From Tree to Table: The Process

It takes roughly 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of syrup.

Tapping: In late winter, when days are warm (above freezing) and nights are cold (below freezing), sap begins to flow.
Collection: Sap is collected via buckets or, more commonly, tubing systems that run to a collection tank.
Boiling: The sap is boiled in an evaporator to remove water and concentrate the sugars.
Finishing: When the syrup reaches 219°F and the correct density, it’s filtered and bottled.

Top Sugarhouses to Visit

Southern Maine

Merrifield Farm (Gorham): A family favorite with a large sugar shack, museum, and ox-cart rides. Expect crowds, but the experience is worth it.
Hilltop Boilers (Newfield): Famous for their prize-winning syrup and friendly cows. They often spread events over multiple weekends.

Central Maine

Balsam Ridge (Raymond): Combine maple syrup with Christmas tree farming. They offer excellent tours and live music.
Pineland Farms (New Gloucester): A massive agricultural campus that offers a polished, educational experience perfect for families.

Northern & Western Maine

Luce’s Maine Maple Syrup (Anson): A large producer with a great shop and stunning views.
Maine Maple Products (Madison): One of the state’s iconic producers, offering a wide range of maple treats.

Beyond Syrup: What to Buy

Don’t leave without stocking up. Maple Sunday is the best time to buy:

Maple Candy: Shaped like maple leaves, these dissolve in your mouth.
Maple Cream: A spreadable, butter-like treat made from 100% syrup. Perfect on toast.
Maple Cotton Candy: A cloud of spun sugar with distinct maple flavor.
Maple Whoopie Pies: A Maine classic with a maple twist.

Tips for a Sweet Trip

Wear Mud Boots: It’s called “Mud Season” for a reason. Sugarhouses are often down dirt roads, and sugarbushes are wet. Leave the sneakers at home.
Bring Cash: While many take cards now, internet connections in rural Maine can be spotty. Cash is king.
Go Hungry: Between samples, pancake breakfasts, and treats, you will eat a lot of sugar.
Check the Map: The Maine Maple Producers Association publishes an official map of participating houses. Check it before you go to see hours and activities.
Arrive Early: The most popular spots get crowded by mid-morning.