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| Lion Dick Lang serves up a sample of fresh maple syrup at the Sugar Shack at the 2015 Andover Maple Festival |
Andover, NY- Pancakes with local maple syrup is the theme of season, and what better way to enjoy it than by stopping by the Andover Maple Festival, April 1 & 2 at the Andover Central School. The newly chartered Andover Lions Club began this event in 1973. Since then it has emerged as an established tradition that has outlived many of the Lions who got it started.
In addition to the locally produced maple products and delicious variety of food being offered, vendors, artists, entertainment and exhibits continue to be a large part of the festivities. Blacksmith Bill banker from Almond will be demonstrating his craft. It is a lot of fun to watch Bill at his anvil as he hammers hot bars of steel into useful and decorative objects.
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| Pat Kane and West O’Clare, shown performing at the 2016 Andover Block party last August, will return to perform in the Auditorium of Andover Central School at 1 PM Saturday April 1 for a free performance at the Maple Festival. |
The headline musical performance this year will be Pat Kane and West O’Clare. This Irish themed combo was a big hit at the Andover Block Party in August. The free performance at 1 PM Saturday is sponsored by three local businesses with Irish roots, Otis Eastern, Hart’s Memorials and Walker Metalsmiths Celtic Jewelry.
Also scheduled for Saturday Pancake breakfast opens at 7 a.m. Exhibits open at 9 a.m. There will be a puppet show at 10:30 and a Kiddie Tractor Pull at 11:00.
On Sunday the Andover Lions welcomes Bwana Jim’s Wildlife Show with three performances at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.. Bwana Jim’s fun and educational show features live birds, reptiles and mammals.
Exhibits include local maple products, antiques, arts and crafts, local businesses as well as local clubs and organizations. The “Sugar Shack” demonstrates the process of boiling sap to make maple sugar on the grounds of Blessed Sacrament Church, across Elm Street from the school.
Lions Clubs are known for their vision and health services. Free children’s eye screening will be offered. The Lions Club will also have an information booth explaining the numerous charitable and social programs provided by the club and offering information for anyone who may be interesting in membership.
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| Blackmith Bill banker will demonstrate his craft at the 2017 Andover Maple Festival |
