In a few days, the official 1st day of spring will be upon us, and for many people, spring means, what else, spring-cleaning! But once you’ve dusted the whole house and put away the vacuum, you may be wondering what there is to do in the Sacandaga area that celebrates the return of the warmer months. Having endured the long winter no doubt it’s refreshing to think of getting outside again and basking in the warmth of the sun!
Oh there are the obvious choices of course: bird watching, hiking, gardening, but here are a few not-to-be-missed options that celebrate our region’s rich heritage!
Maple Weekend!
Among the most famous attractions in our area to welcome the burgeoning spring is Maple Weekend! This event is taking place March 19th through 20th and 26th through 27th. There are some 1,500-plus maple syrup producers in New York State, many of them local to the Sacandaga region! With each passing year, New York becomes more and more famous for its sugarhouses and the increasing maple syrup crop produced each year. Don’t miss an opportunity to experience the process of syrup making and sample some of the region’s finest maple products while celebrating the return of spring! Maple Weekend has an official website (www.mapleweekend.com) where you can find a listing of participating locations, many of which offer free admission!
Tulip Festival!
Later this spring, take the short drive into the city and enjoy the Albany Tulip Festival! Being held the weekend of May 7th and 8th, visitors will enjoy vendors, food, live music and more! Saturday’s events include the “Royal Tulip Ball” at 6:30 p.m. This highly anticipated spring tradition is marked by the over 200,000 tulip bulbs that blossom just in time for Mother’s Day in Washington Park and is definitely not to be missed!
Farmers Markets!
Ah the great tradition returns! Fresh, locally grown produce, hard-to-find items and unique gifts & treasures are something we all miss about the warmer months when we’re languishing in the cold of winter! There are a number of area markets that open in May, while others typically open in June. The Gloversville Farmers’ Market at Elm Street Pavilion opens May 7th and runs through October 15th! The Johnstown Farmers’ Market at the Johnstown Professional Office Complex opens May 24th and runs through October 11th. Fort Plain at Willet St. next to True Value opens May 14th, and the Canajoharie Farmers’ Market at the Arkell Musuem parking lot & Dutchtown Ace Hardware in Palentine Bridge opens May 21st. So pack up the family, and take a short trip to your local farmers market, each purchase helps support local farmers and artisans, get shopping! If you are looking for your local market, view our list of local farmers markets on our site.
Trout Fishing!
For the angler that loves to fish but doesn’t like the cold weather, the spring and the warmer weather is welcomed with open arms. Trout fishing opens up in NY state on April 1st, so start getting your fishing gear ready, renew your fishing license and look out for any fishing contests in our area, and don’t forget to send us your fish photos and whopper stories!
Do you know of other special spring events? Visit our Sacandaga events calendar and add them for FREE, or email editor@sacandagalife.com to submit your suggestions.