Spring in Virginia is a much-anticipated season. The promise of slightly warmer weather, flower blooms, and returning to the outdoors is welcome after months and months of cold. One of the best ways to celebrate, in our opinion, is by attending the iconic annual Highland County Maple Festival. It’s a celebration of all the things we love about springtime, despite being an event that you’ll certainly need to bundle up for — March in the Virginia mountains isn’t exactly balmy! Don’t worry, though; you will be warmed by maple donuts, maple syrup, and the pure sweetness of this outdoor festival in Virginia.

This year’s festival dates are March 11-12 and 18-19, 2023. Check out the Highland County website for more information.

Welcome to the picturesque Highland County! This mountainous region of the state is often lauded as Virginia's Little Switzerland, and it's no mystery why.
Highland County VA / Facebook
Most of the year, Highland County is a relatively quiet place. That is, of course, until early spring arrives, which means one thing: Maple Festival time!
Highland County VA / Facebook
The festival, a beloved tradition since 1959, celebrates the art and practice of tapping trees for legendary Highland County maple syrup.
Highland County VA / Facebook
Visitors from all over can observe the "opening" of the trees and the process of maple syrup making.
Highland County VA / Facebook

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Throughout the festival, which takes place over two weekends, there will be vendors sharing their delicious products as well as tours of the sugar camps.
Highland County VA / Facebook
And the very best way to learn all about maple syrup and sugar? Sample as much of it as you can!
Highland County VA / Facebook
One of the best tips we can offer is to arrive at the festival early. Starting at 7:00 a.m., you can enjoy all-you-can-eat pancake and buckwheat cake meals!
Highland County VA / Facebook
Blokhin Films / YouTube
You can take a look at the following video for a preview of this special festival:

Wondering exactly where the festival takes place? As stated on the website, the festival is a county-wide event, but the three main areas of interest are 165 W. Main Street, Monterey, 161 Mansion House, McDowell, and 2558 Blue Grass Valley Road, Blue Grass.

Have you ever attended the Highland County Maple Festival? What did you think about this much-loved outdoor festival in Virginia? Share your favorite memories with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!

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