Ring in Spring at Kings Landing

Since 1984, Kings Landing has opened its doors in March to celebrate New Brunswick’s longstanding, delicious tradition of maple syrup making. After a cancellation in 2021, Kings Landing is eager to welcome folks back for this beloved event. Although this event will be a different than the past, visitors are sure to have lots of fun while staying safe.
Here are seven things to know when planning your visit to Kings Landing this March.
1. New name, same good old-fashioned fun
What was typically known as Sugar Bush is now called Maple, the First Taste of Spring. Even with the name change, Kings Landing is still celebrating New Brunswick’s maple history with a 19th century sugaring demonstration, a winter encampment, horse and wagon rides, maple candy on the snow, and more.
2. Make sure to purchase your tickets online!
This year, tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite here. While you can still purchase tickets at Kings Landing on the day of your visit, this can help you get in faster to start having a grand old time. Purchase your tickets for Maple, the First Day of Spring here.
3. Tasty candy on the snow
The sugaring demonstration is the highlight for many who attend this event. This year, each guest will receive one “long-lick” with the purchase of their ticket online. Head over to the sugaring demonstration to see large cauldrons boiling down sap to create taffy that will be poured over the snow to create this delectable treat.
4. Lots to see & do
This year, all activities will take place outdoors and indoors on the west side of the Village. This includes the Welcome Centre, the Gordon House, the Joslin Farm, and the Hagerman House. Visitors will be able to enter these buildings to see cooking demonstrations and learn how folks lived in the winter in the mid-1800s. Be sure to grab a map at the Welcome Centre so you don’t miss anything!
5. The joy of mini pancakes in support of Shriners
The Luxor Shriners of New Brunswick will be serving delectable mini pancakes that are sure to satisfy your sugar craving. This option lets folks easily maintain physical distancing while supporting Shriners initiatives and enjoying a delicious treat outdoors. The typical breakfast folks are used to won’t be available this year, but Kings Landing is pleased to still support Shriners!
6. Dress for the weather
Winter has been fairly snowy with varying temperatures in New Brunswick, so it’s difficult to know what March will bring! You’ll be spending time outdoors, so be sure to bundle up if it’s cold. Be sure to also have good footwear to walk safely along the roadways. If the snow is melting, kids would be best dressed in splash pants and boots. While you can certainly warm up and dry off in the open buildings, being dressed for the weather is always a good idea.
7. Remember your mask and proof of vax!
A facemask and proof of vaccination are essential to your visit to Kings Landing this March. While Kings Landing has lots of open space to explore with your bubble, masks are required while inside any building, while on wagon rides, and outdoors if you cannot maintain physical distancing. Per GNB health and safety guidelines, visitors aged 12 years and older must show proof of vaccination with a piece of government issued ID to enter. Please do your part to have fun and stay safe!
On March 5, 6, 12, and 13, 2022, from 10 am – 4 pm, experience Maple, the First Taste of Spring at Kings Landing. Purchase your tickets online here.
The open air museum will have a traditional encampment set up in their 19th-century landscape. See large cauldrons set up over open fires boiling sap down to maple syrup. Enjoy a “long-lick” (a.k.a. maple candy in the snow) with the purchase of your ticket. Wagon rides will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Select buildings will be open for winter related activities.
Admission fees for this event cover entry to the site only. Prices listed below include tax but do not include Eventbrite processing fees.
- Family (max. 2 adults and 2 youth ages 6-15) $20
- Additional Youth (6 to 15) $4
- Adult (16 and older) $10
- Senior (65+) $5
- Student (Valid student ID required) $5
- Youth (ages 6 to 15) $5
- Children (5 years and under) FREE
- Military (Valid ID required) FREE
- 2022 Season Passholders FREE
Don’t hesitate to send Kings Landing a message on Facebook or Instagram if you have any questions!