For one Vilas county community it's an opportunity to put a spark into the economy during what is traditionally a slow time for visitors.
The 7th annual Phelps Maple Syrup Fest is set for Saturday.
Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Celeste Hendrickson says the event helps the community.....
"....this is a really slow time for our tourism industry, the restaurants and the resorts are quiet. We don't get a lot of people through town. We get 3,000-5,000 people for the day. It highlights our agriculture resources, our heritage and it helps stick in people's minds throughout the year...."
The event runs from 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Phelps Maple Syrup Fest is centered on the grounds of the Phelps school. She says the public can watch tree-tapping demonstrations, and eat treats at the Maple Café. Kid’s games and activities are featured, along with 70 vendors displaying arts and crafts.
She says one feature has been popular..
"....we have guided bus tours of local sugar bushes. Those are always popular. 9 a.m.,10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. they leave the school. You can take a tour, visit a couple of different sugar bushes. See where syrup is made, how it is made. Or you can pick up a map at the school and guide yourself...."
Hendrickson says honey is also featured during the day. More information is at the Phelps Chamber of Commerce website.
