Oxbow Park's syrup tour educates and entertains families

BYRON, Minn. — A popular event took place at Oxbow Park on March 23, 2025. The annual syrup day attracted families eager to learn about maple syrup production. This year's event included a special treat for children, allowing them to taste syrup and even sample sap directly from the trees. Mariah Bunde, six years old, celebrated early with a sample at the park. Her father, Dillon Bunde, took his family from Winnebago for a weekend in Rochester and discovered the event. "It was good timing," he said. "We're all about the outdoors." Naturalist Jaide Ryks led the tour, explaining how sap is collected and processed into syrup. Participants got to see and taste raw sap from the trees. Some children were eager to try it, while others hesitated. Shane McNamara often visits the park with his kids to learn about nature. Despite the chilly and rainy weather, over thirty people attended the syrup tour. Abigail Clandon, 10 years old, traveled from Cresco, Iowa, with her family, having prepared by watching podcasts on the topic. She was excited to discover that real maple syrup tastes much better than store-bought versions. The event also drew international visitors. Maria and Jens Skov from Denmark joined local friends. They enjoyed pancakes made with syrup and were happy to engage in an outdoor activity. "It’s something we don’t have in Denmark," Maria said. Ryks noted that this event is only held once a year, as sap collects in the trees during the spring thaw. The next opportunity to join the syrup tour will be March 2026.