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National Maple Syrup Day

Indulge your sweet tooth this National Maple Syrup Day with delicious recipes, DIY projects, and fun activities the whole family can enjoy!

Thursday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember 17

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYSide Dishes

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Maple Syrup Day on December 17th! This day has been a celebration of the sweet and delicious syrup since the early 1940s, when it was first created by American farmers. Made from tree sap, maple syrup is used in many dishes around the world as an accompaniment or finishing touch. Enjoy this sugary treat in pancakes, french toast, ice cream sundaes and much more!

TIMELINE

National Maple Syrup Day Timeline

Native American Maple Syrup Production

Native American tribes tapped trees and harvested sap to create the first iterations of maple syrup, passing on their methods to European settlers.

Settlers Expand Production

European settlers in North America further expanded the production and uses of maple syrup with more sophisticated techniques.

Syrup Commercialization

Maple syrup began to be commercially produced during the 19th century, with Canada and the United States becoming leading producers.

National Maple Syrup Day Origins

Farmers in the United States established National Maple Syrup Day to celebrate and promote this sweet, natural product.

Technological Advances

The late 20th century saw technological advances in syrup production for greater efficiency, including improved sap collection and evaporation methods.

Global Recognition

International food and beverage industries recognized maple syrup for its unique flavor and nutritional value, integrating it into numerous recipes worldwide.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Maple Syrup Day

Make your own maple syrup

Making your own maple syrup is a great way to celebrate National Maple Syrup Day. All you need is some fresh sap, a boiling pot, and some clean bottles to store it in. Boil the sap down until it thickens and cool before storing.

Go out for pancakes

Pancakes are one of the most iconic foods that come with maple syrup. Head to your favorite spot for pancakes and enjoy them smothered in maple syrup to celebrate National Maple Syrup Day.

ATTEND

Attend a pancake breakfast

Many restaurants, churches, and organizations host pancake breakfasts throughout the year. Attend one of these events on National Maple Syrup Day to get your fill of pancakes and maple syrup.

TRY

Try a new recipe

There are so many recipes that call for maple syrup. Look online for new recipes or try something from a cookbook. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite dish.

VISIT

Visit a sugar shack

A trip to the sugar shack is a great way to learn about the process of producing maple syrup. Many sugar shacks also offer food like pancakes and waffles with real maple syrup.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Maple Syrup Day

Maple Syrup supports small businesses

Buying locally produced maple syrup directly from producers is a great way to support small business owners and encourage them to continue their hard work. So not only are you getting a delicious natural sweetener - you're also helping to keep the maple syrup industry alive!

Maple syrup is a healthy sweetener

As far as natural sweeteners go, maple syrup is one of the healthiest. It's high in antioxidants and minerals, plus it has fewer calories and carbohydrates than other popular sugary alternatives like honey or agave nectar. Plus, it tastes great and adds just the right amount of sweetness to any dish!

Maple syrup adds amazing flavor

Maple syrup has a uniquely sweet yet earthy flavor that can add something special to almost anything.Whether you drizzle it on top of pancakes, waffles, oatmeal or ice cream, its deep caramellike flavor will certainly tantalize your taste buds!

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