Two of Ambler Farm‘s most popular winter programs for families, the Maple Syrup Tap-a-Tree program and the Valentine’s Tea, are now open for registration to members only. Registration for non-members, space permitting, will begin on Jan. 15.
Ambler Farm volunteers encourage signing up for membership, so that interested participants don’t miss out on the programs, which regularly sell out.
Maple Syrup Tap-a-Tree Program: Training sessions on Saturday, Feb., 8, choose 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. time slot–Learn the science and history of maple syruping by being a hands-on part of the process. There are two training sessions offered; only ONE session is required for training. On that day you will choose a tree and hang your bucket that will collect sap. Ambler sends regular updates on the running of the sap so you can come to the Farm to collect sap from your tree. The sap will be boiled down in the Ambler sugar shack and each family receives their very own bottle of Ambler Farm maple syrup – it is the best around, with NO additives. You can say you made your own syrup!
The season runs from early February to mid-March. Maple syrup production is winter farming and therefore weather dependent. A typical season is five weeks long. If you are traveling during February or March, Ambler will collect sap for you. Email Program Manager Kevin Meehan for details. Register here.
Cost: $60 per member family
$65 per non-member family
Middlebrook School Tap-a-Tree Program for Students in Grades 6-8
This FREE program will meet on Thursdays from Feb. 6-March 13 (6 sessions). Students will meet Cider Mill science instructor and Ambler Farm Program Manager Kevin Meehan in the Middlebrook cafeteria after school and pickup will be in the school’s regular pickup area at 4:10 p.m.. The students will tap trees right on the Middlebrook property, and will learn how to collect sap and how maple syrup is made. Each student will receive a bottle of syrup as a thank you for helping. Students should be prepared to be out in the snow with snow gear as they will be outside the entire time. Parents should contact Kevin Meehan directly to register their children.
Valentine’s Tea: Sunday, Feb. 9, 2-4 p.m.
Spend a cozy afternoon with your little Valentine at Ambler’s annual Tea! Enjoy platters of delicious sandwiches and sweets galore and have fun making a craft to take home. The Tea usually sells out quickly so reserve your spot soon!
Cost: $20 per adult and $10 per child. Register here.
Editor’s note: Michele Bennett is on the board of Ambler Farm.