Published on February 21, 2024
Welcome to Maple Syrup Month, a time to celebrate the sweet nectar of maple trees and delve into the profound teachings of the Maple Sugar Moon and the Honourable Harvest as illuminated in Robin Wall Kimmerer’s novel of essays, ‘Braiding Sweetgrass’. In her essay, ‘Maple Sugar Moon’, Kimmerer discusses the significance of the maple sugar season and its connection to Indigenous teachings about stewardship and sustainability.
The Maple Sugar Moon marks the time when maple sap begins to flow, signaling the start of the maple syrup harvesting season. This celestial event is not only a practical marker for tapping trees but also a cultural and spiritual occasion, symbolizing renewal, abundance and the interconnectedness between humans and nature.
As the moon rises and bathes the earth in its soft light, communities gather to engage in the time-honored tradition of collecting sap and boiling it down to make maple syrup, a practice steeped in tradition and reverence for the land. The Maple Sugar Moon invites us to pause, reflect, and celebrate the gifts of the earth while embracing our role as caretakers of the environment for future generations.
During the month of March, join us for a maple syrup scavenger hunt at the Saturday Farmers Market and enjoy a ‘friends and family’ discount for 15% off all maple syrup products at the Evergreen Garden Market.
As March unfolds its gentle embrace, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that pays homage to the liquid gold that flows through the heart of Canada’s forests. Join us in a month-long extravaganza where local artisans and vendors craft delectable creations infused with the essence of maple syrup.
Each product tells a story of sustainability, tradition and the rich cultural tapestry that defines our community. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and awaken your senses as we showcase an array of maple-inspired delights. Let the sweet symphony of maple-infused offerings guide you through a celebration of flavour, heritage and the vibrant spirit of our Saturday Farmers Market.
Forbes Wild Foods: Discover the essence of Ontario’s forests with Forbes Wild Foods’ selection of sustainably sourced maple syrups. From the amber hues to the rich and velvety dark varieties, each bottle holds the pure essence of a single forest near Goderich. Indulge not only in the liquid gold of maple syrup but also explore the delectable world of maple-infused treats, including their heavenly maple butter, tantalizing maple sugar and the iconic maple fudge candies.
Crepe De La Crepe: Treat your taste buds to the irresistible aroma of freshly made-to-order crepes, generously drizzled with the exquisite maple syrup from Forbes Wild Foods. An organic maple syrup crepe awaits you at the Farmers Market.
Eastern Woodlands Trading Co: Elevate your snack game with Eastern Woodlands Trading Co’s adaptogenic energy balls and woodland breakfast cookies, each infused with the richness of local maple syrup. Don’t miss the chance to experience the sublime flavour of their Maple Walnut energy ball — a true celebration of the harmonious blend of nature’s goodness.
Alma Bakery: March at the Farmers Market brings a fusion of cultures with Alma Bakery’s Baklava Cake featuring the sweetness of maple syrup. Immerse yourself in the harmony of flavours as this classic Persian dessert takes on a uniquely Canadian twist. It’s a sweet journey you won’t want to miss!
Johnson Family Bakery: Experience maple bliss with the Maple Swedish Knot, a beloved regular at the Farmers Market. Indulge in the special offering of scrumptious maple pecan tarts, crafted with care using their own crystallized maple sugar. Delight your senses with these delectable treats and savour the dedication that goes into every bite.
Murray’s Farm: Make your Saturday mornings extra special with the farm-to-table breakfast sandwiches from Murray’s Farm. During March, relish the Maple Breakfast Patties on a brioche bun, featuring free-range heritage eggs. It’s a delightful and wholesome way to start your day at the Farmers Market!
Samsara Fields: Elevate your culinary creations with Samsara Fields’ Balsamic Onion Jam with Maple. This versatile jam is the perfect companion for charcuterie boards, sandwiches, rice, and potatoes. Immerse yourself in a sweet and savory fusion of flavours that will transform your dining experience.
The Grounded Pantry: When you think of maple syrup, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Pancakes! Try The Grounded Pantry’s wholesome pancake mix, a blend of seven wholegrain flours, amaranth, flax and chia. For an extra protein boost, try the pancake mix infused with cricket protein powder. Kickstart your day with a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic pancake.
Chocosol Traders: Indulge in the unique medley of flavours with Chocosol Traders’ Cacao Symphony Bar sweetened with maple sugar. Immerse yourself in the complexity of this chocolate bar, blending single-origin cacao with the natural sweetness of maple sugar. It’s a treat that transcends simplicity.
Strong Food Company: Maureen’s passion for maple syrup shines through in every bite of Strong Food Company’s offerings. Indulge in the delightful sticky toffee pudding, heavenly maple crème brûlée or the irresistible sticky buns. Each treat is a testament to over 20 years of tapping maple trees with love and dedication at her family cottage.
Tony Cheese: Elevate your culinary creations with Tony’s Maple Sugar Stracciatella —an exquisite addition to bruschettas, cannolis or paired with cooked pears, apples, or butternut squash. Transform your dishes with the subtle sweetness of this traditional Italian cheese made from pulled mozzarella curds and maple sugar.
Earth Haven Farm: Immerse yourself in the pure and unadulterated essence of maple sap from Aric at Earth Haven Farm. Considered a traditional Springtime tonic and a staple in many First Nations cuisine, this limited-time offering is rich in minerals and a true celebration of nature’s bounty and eating with the seasons.
G-Free Sweets: For gluten-free indulgence, savor the ooey gooey goodness of G-Free Sweets’ Maple Butter Tarts. A sweet treat for everyone, these tarts redefine the classic Canadian favorite with a gluten-free twist.
Tapioca Toronto: Experience gluten-free Brazilian-style crepes made with tapioca flour and adorned with berries, chocolate, pecans, and, of course, local maple syrup. Let the flavours transport you to a culinary journey that combines tradition with a touch of sweetness.
Omo Bamboo: Pamper yourself with Omo Bamboo’s Choco Body Butter with Maple Sugar. Indulge in the luxurious combination of body care and the warm, comforting aroma of maple sugar.
Molly B’s Gluten Free: Delight in the guilt-free pleasure of Gluten-Free Vegan Apple Maple Scones and Gluten-Free Vegan Maple Cream Fudge from Molly B’s. Each bite is a testament to their commitment to creating indulgent treats that cater to various dietary preferences.
Wholesome Deelights: Nourish your body with Wholesome Deelights’ new seasonal nut butter for Spring—Maple Hazelnut. Indulge in the decadent fusion of small batch roasted hazelnuts and the warm sweetness of local maple syrup. With all-natural ingredients and no preservatives, it’s a guilt-free pleasure that satisfies your senses.
Sasa Farmed Goods & Sasa Naturals: Experience the dual delights of Sasa Farmed Goods and Sasa Naturals with their Maple Fudge and Maple Soap. Immerse yourself in the sweet melody of maple-infused treats and self-care essentials—a perfect duo for Maple Syrup Month at the Farmers Market.
Date: Every Saturday in March
Time: 9am – 1pm
Location: TD Future Cities Centre (Building 16)
Market Map: Plan your visit by viewing our weekly market map!
Enjoy our friends and family discount of 15% off all maple syrup products for the month of March at the Garden Market!
We’re excited to introduce a new addition to our vendor lineup! Please join us in welcoming Spade and Spoon, a small family farm and small batch preserves company. They offer a range of locally made fine foods made with local and organic ingredients – jams and jellies, relishes and chutneys, pickles, fermentations (sauerkrauts, cucumbers, carrots) and maple syrup from their maple bush too. We highly recommend their maple butter. It will leave you feeling like you’re floating on a maple cloud!
Date: Open everyday
Time: 10am – 5pm (9am on Saturdays)
Location: Building 14
Join us this March in the Children’s Garden for some maple-themed activities including creating maple leaf arts and crafts and building cozy forts to set the tone for a year filled with activity, joy and connection!
Dates: Every Saturday and select Sundays
Time: 11am – 2pm
Location: The Children’s Garden
Take the free Shuttle Bus located outside Broadview Station. The Shuttle runs every 30 – 45 minutes and has a bike rack available. Alternatively, hop on the 28 TTC bus from Davisville Station or ride your bike along one of the ravine trails. Paid parking is available, but spaces are limited. Learn more about how to plan your visit here.
