🍁 It's Maple Syrup Season in Canada 🇨🇦

LIVING
The Maple Syrup Story in Canada

Sweet Beginnings 🥞🍁
Ah, the sweet elixir that makes pancakes sing and waffles dance - maple syrup! But did you know that this delectable treat has a rich history intertwined with the forests of Canada?

Indigenous Wisdom 🌳🍯
Dating back centuries, Indigenous peoples in Canada were the first to discover the magic of maple sap. They would collect the sap in early spring, using simple methods like inserting wooden spouts into maple trees and collecting the dripping sap in birch bark containers. They then boiled the sap over an open flame to produce a sweet syrup, which they used not only as a sweetener but also for medicinal purposes.

European Ingenuity 🍁🏭
Fast forward to the arrival of European settlers, who adopted the Indigenous techniques and further refined the process. The 17th century saw the introduction of metal pots for boiling sap, making production more efficient. This marked the beginning of commercial maple syrup production in Canada.

Canadian Maple Dominance 🇨🇦🍁
Today, Canada stands as the world's leading producer of maple syrup, with the province of Quebec leading the charge, followed closely by Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. The process of making maple syrup, known as "sugaring off," remains largely unchanged from its humble beginnings.

Modern Sap Collection 🌲💧
During late winter and early spring, when temperatures fluctuate above freezing during the day and below freezing at night, the sap begins to flow. Modern producers use a system of plastic tubing and vacuum pumps to collect sap from thousands of maple trees, a far cry from the traditional methods of old.

Liquid Gold Production 🍁🥞
Once collected, the sap is boiled down in large evaporators, removing excess water and concentrating the sugars to produce that golden goodness we all love. It takes about 40 liters of sap to make a single liter of maple syrup!

Canadian Pride 🍁🥞
Maple syrup isn't just a tasty topping; it's a symbol of Canadian pride and tradition. So next time you drizzle that liquid gold over your breakfast, take a moment to appreciate the centuries of history and hard work that went into producing it. Happy syrup season, eh!

CANADA EH?
Things To Do Around You:

Get ready for the One Of A Kind's 2024 Spring Show which runs from March 27-31 at Toronto's Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place. With over 400 vendors, it's Canada's premier showcase of handmade goods, featuring artisans from coast to coast. Get tickets

The 199th Montreal St-Patrick's Parade is on Sunday, March 17, 2024, from 12 pm to 3 pm. Join the vibrant celebration of Irish pride with music, floats, and community spirit. It's a great day for family fun or gathering friends for drinks and delicious eats. Learn more

CelticFest Vancouver, marking 20 years of Celtic culture in the city, hosts an all-day St. Patrick’s Day festival on Saturday, March 16th. The free event features live music, performances, food trucks, Irish dancing, a Celtic market, games, and family-friendly activities. Learn more

Posh Market, at Southgate Mall in Edmonton, isn't your typical market; they’re pop-up collective boutique. Support local vendors and small businesses, March 16-17, while treating yourself to snacks and drinks. Plus, the first 20 shoppers will receive a complimentary swag bag. Learn more

Anime Ottawa premieres March 29-31, where fans can meet creators and enjoy diverse programming promoting anime, gaming, and pop culture. Dress up for fun or the Masquerade competition and explore the Exhibition Hall with vendors and talented artists. Get tickets

Between March 17 and 23, various shopping streets in the city, including Petit-Champlain in Quebec City, will be adorned with festive decorations to honor the Irish holiday. Then, on March 23, the popular St. Patrick's Day Parade takes over the streets. Learn more

You Can’t Stop the Beat! HAIRSPRAY, Broadway’s Tony Award-winning musical comedy phenomenon is back on tour and it’s coming to Calgary March 19-24! Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Get tickets

TRAVEL
Best Irish Bars in Canada to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day ☘️

With St. Patrick's Day approaching this Sunday, March 17, it's time to plan your celebration! Across Canada, Irish bars are gearing up for festivities filled with green beer, live music, and spirited camaraderie. 

Let's take a look at some of the best Irish bars across Canada to celebrate St. Patrick's Day: 

Hurley's in Montreal
This iconic Irish pub on Crescent Street's bustling strip is a hub for great beers, lively company, and unforgettable moments. It's a haven for genuine pub enjoyment, where the focus is on good times and camaraderie.

Brazen in Toronto
A hotspot that elevates St. Patrick's Day festivities to new heights. Opening its doors at 11 a.m., this lively venue offers two floors packed with non-stop Irish excitement. From a festive celebration tent to live musicians and DJs, there's no shortage of entertainment. 

Aulde Dubliner & Pour House in Ottawa
Immerse yourself in Irish charm at The Aulde Dubliner & Pour House, a two-story pub exuding authentic Irish culture. With a wide array of draught beer and Irish whiskey, as well as traditional pub fare, this venue offers a genuine St. Patrick's Day experience. 

The Blarney Stone in Vancouver
Join the festivities as they celebrate their 51st St. Patrick’s Day! Vancouver's oldest Irish pub opens its doors at 9 am for an authentic Irish brunch, followed by live bands, captivating Celtic dancers, the melodic tunes of an Irish piper, and the beats of a talented DJ. 

Blowers & Grafton in Edmonton 
Get ready to celebrate at Blowers & Grafton's epic St. Patrick's Day bash, lasting all weekend long! Enjoy green beer flowing from the taps, indulge in your favourite East Coast delicacies, and groove to live music at selected venues, immersing yourself in the true Irish vibe.

POLL OF THE WEEK 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT
10 Hiking Destinations Near Toronto Offering a Breath of Spring Air

With spring around the corner, it's time to step outside and enjoy the fresh air. Narcity lists 10 hiking spots near Toronto are perfect for anyone eager to embrace the beautiful weather. From stunning waterfalls to blooming flowers, you'll be surrounded by the sights and scents of spring. Let's discover 10 wonderful hiking destinations that are calling your name this season.

Kortright Centre for Conservation
Just a quick 10-minute drive north of Toronto lies this "natural oasis," where you can stroll through verdant woodlands. In the springtime, the region comes alive with a delightful maple syrup festival, offering a taste of all things sweet.

Guild Park & Gardens
Guild Park resembles an architectural graveyard, preserving fragments of historic Toronto buildings that have been demolished. These salvaged pieces are thoughtfully displayed, offering a glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage.

Rattlesnake Point
With ancient cedars and breathtaking viewpoints, this hiking spot invites you to embrace the essence of spring while traversing its scenic escarpment trails.

Hilton Falls
Hilton Falls offers adventure with hiking, biking, and a stunning waterfall near old mill ruins. Mountain bikers enjoy three thrilling trails, while hikers and runners love the Red Oak Trail. The scenic Hilton Falls Trail leads to the waterfall, and families gather at Beaver Dam Trail's campfire.

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