Springtime in Michigan is loaded with fun and excitement, regardless of your age. After all, the arrival of a vibrant new season is accompanied by the promise of new adventures, warmer weather, and the magic of summertime right around the corner. If you’re searching for a wonderful way to experience spring here in the Great Lakes State, we’ve got you covered. One of our favorite spring festivals in Michigan is so worth checking out year after year, no matter how many times you’ve attended. It’s the Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival, located not far from Mt. Pleasant, and it’s a spring tradition we think is worth repeating each and every year.
The Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival takes place annually during the last full weekend in April. This unique gathering happens in the small town of Shepherd, which sits in Isabella County.
Since 1958, this festival has drawn in locals and out-of-town visitors alike with its sugary-sweet itinerary. As its name implies, the Maple Syrup Festival celebrates local production of delicious maple syrup.
While the first festival lasted just one day, the festival has evolved throughout the generations and now spans four days. Whether you stop in for a day trip or check out the whole event, you’ll be delighted.
There’s something here for every member of the family to appreciate, from an arts and crafts show to vibrant parades to a 5K walk and run. Bring along your camera, as you’ll surely want to remember this fest.
Younger visitors will enjoy a petting zoo and on-site “children’s village,” while guests of all ages will have a blast taking part in helicopter rides, a fun carnival, and – of course – visiting the Shepherd Sugar Bush.
Of course, no visit to the Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival is complete without bringing home a bottle or two of maple syrup. Regardless of which size you select, you’ll soon be enjoying tasty syrup atop your food.
During the event, you’ll also have the opportunity to wave at winners of the annual Royalty and Princess pageants, which crown local royalty to reign during the Maple Syrup Festival. Talk about enchanting.
As you begin planning your spring adventures here in Michigan, keep this marvelous festival on your itinerary. No matter how many times you’ve checked it out, the Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival will impress. This year's event is being held from April 25-28, and preparations are well underway.
If you’d like to learn more about this fun-filled spring festival in Michigan, check out the Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival website. You can also follow the Facebook page of this popular spring festival in Michigan. Have you and your family attended this annual gathering in previous years? Share your favorite memories with us or let us know your favorite spring festivals in Michigan by leaving a Facebook comment. You can also recommend another unique festival in Michigan by completing our official nomination form.
Are you looking for more in-state fun? Be sure to read about this bison ranch bed and breakfast in Michigan. And if you’re looking to show off your state pride at this festival, make sure to get some Wolverine State gear from Wear Your Roots.
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