WANDER. EXPERIENCE. INDULGE
This is the mantra of the 16th Annual Pakenham Maple Run Tour which takes place on April 7 & 8th from 10-5pm. www.mapleruntour.com
The Maple Run Tour is a 'sweet' reason to Wander up to Pakenham, just a short drive from Ottawa via Hwy 417 or from Carleton Place on Hwy 29. Experience inspiring art, craft, food and heritage locations. Meet the artists who have created their work and find out what feeds their passion. Indulge your taste buds in locally produced fudge, solar roasted coffee and craft beer. It’s a perfect time to enjoy the Lanark County's maple syrup season (www.mapleweekend.ca) with a visit to Fulton's Pancake House and Sugar Bush ( www.fultons.ca) . Try out the local restaurants and bakeries, many who have maple inspired food items for this annual spring celebration.
The Maple Run Tour website gives a detailed description of all 29 participants, 9 tour venues, food stops, demonstrations, special events and a map with locations taking you through Pakenham and surrounding area. www.mapleruntour.com. Brochures with tour information can be picked up at the Pakenham General Store (right in the heart of the village) or drop by at any tour stop displaying the green maple leaf logo.
There are returning favorites and several new artists to this year's tour who are working in different canvas mediums, pottery, unique birdhouses, paper, glass and creative woodworking. Photography and fine jewelry will brighten up your home and spring outfit. Pewterware, blacksmithing, sculptures and miniature quilts to embellish your interior and exterior décor. Luscious soaps and scented candles to treat your body and soul. Tempting flavoured honey, jams and sweet breads, solar roasted coffee, craft beer and a food truck serving up a gourmet lunch menu. Find au couture clothing to add to your spring wardrobe. An award winning children's book author as well as glassblowing demonstrations and other glass art forms add to the excitement of the Maple Run Tour.
Include in your day a visit to St. Peter's Celestine's Church (guided tour on Saturday at 1:30, donations appreciated ) . Take photos at the only surviving 5 span stone bridge which at this time of year will have a spectacular vista of the river's spring run off. And check out the Pakenham General Store housed in an impressive stone building which has been the longest continuously running general store in North America since the 1840’s. All the details can be found at www.mapleruntour.com and find us on Facebook for updates and more.