Experience Geauga County’s Nearly Century-Old Maple Festival

For Jen Freeman, maple syrup has been part of her life since the very beginning of it. She was born on a Friday during the Geauga County Maple Festival and now leads the event as its director while also serving as the vice president of the Ohio Maple Producers Association.

The Geauga County Maple Festival, held April 24 through 27 on the square in Chardon, celebrates almost 100 years of maple heritage. Founded in 1926 by local merchant Art Carlson, the festival began as a way to connect syrup producers and consumers while raising awareness of maple products in northeast Ohio.

The festival looked very different at its start, with featured events like an oxen pull and sheep-shearing contest. But early traditions such as the queen’s pageant and lumberjack competitions remain beloved staples. 

“We still have women that come up who were queens once upon a time,” Freeman says. “I love hearing how it continues.” 

Another one of Freeman’s favorite events is the quirky bathtub races. “People will take bathtubs and put wheels on them and a steering wheel,” she explains. “And those teams get into it.” 

One must-try tradition is the maple stir, a sweet treat that is made by rapidly stirring maple syrup until it forms into a creamy candy. Available since the first festival, it’s a favorite for visitors and Freeman herself. 

“I own a maple company, but I still buy maple stirs here,” she says.

The festival also hosts a maple contest where people can submit their best maple syrups, candies and confections. The winning items are auctioned off on Sunday.  

It’s estimated that over 20,000 people will visit the festival over its four-day run to enjoy the mix of arts and crafts vendors, food and amusement rides. While you can beat the crowds by visiting on Thursday and Friday, the weekend brings more entertainment options, including a pancake-eating contest, two grand parades and live bands. 

“And there’s always plenty of good maple,” Freeman says.

100 Short Court St., Chardon 44024, 440/332-7055, maplefestival.com

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