(Andover, NY) After a long winter in Western New York the maple sap is finally running and the Andover Lions Club is preparing for their signature event. On March 24 and 25 at Andover Central School will continue the tradition into the forty sixth year of tapping village maple trees, feasting on pancakes and presenting a wide variety of exhibits, food and live entertainment.
Events begin both days with a pancake breakfast by the Andover Rod and Gun Club beginning at 7 AM. Then exhibits and vendors open at 9. On Saturday there will be a puppet show at 10 AM, Kiddie Tractor Pull at 11 AM. A free concert by the internationally acclaimed Irish folk duo, The Dady Brothers is at 1 PM, sponsored by Walker Metalsmiths, The Andover Village Pub and Gaylord Construction. On Sunday there will be another Kiddie Tractor Pull at 11:00 followed by the Bwana Jim Wildlife Show at 12:30& 2:00.
New for 2018 are a Maple Cooking competition and a community Palm Sunday service at 8:15 AM in the Gym. Information on the cooking contest can be found on the Andover Lions maple Festival Facebook Page.
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 eye screening, blood sugar and blood pressure tests will take place in the Lions Health Room. The Lions Club is always looking for new members. Club president Dave Schaut says, “Everyone in the Andover community has benefited in some way from the activities of the Lions Club over the years.” Stop and chat with any of the Andover Lions to see if you might be a good fit to join this a small town community club that is also part of the world’s largest network of service clubs.
