WNY Family Magazine March 2019 | Page 53

a family business and hard work for all of us and we take pride in producing a quality product.” There is a special treat for visitors to the Wright Farm: maple syrup snow can- dy. Hot syrup is poured over fresh snow to produce this special seasonal delicacy. “People often say that this is just like the Laura Ingalls Wilder stories,” Wright said. “We give each person a popsicle stick to turn the candy into an easy to eat treat.” If you have a sweet tooth like me, these are really delicious and a unique treat. Gabel’s Maple Syrup in Lawtons is another family operation that is putting out the welcome mat for visitors. “It just would not be spring without making syrup,” explained Norbert Gabel. “My great grandfather was making maple syrup in the area years ago and we are proud to continue the tradition. We bring visitors in a hay wagon out to the sugar shack so they can see the boiling process.” For information visit: mapleweek- end.nysmaple.com; 315-335-0887. There are maps and listings of all the farms that are participating in the Maple Weekend on the website. Wright Farm, 9166 Laidlaw Rd., Farmersville, 716-474-7474. Gabel’s Maple Syrup, 3843 Lenox Rd., Lawtons, 716-949-9110. Maple syrup season is also mud season so don’t forget boots and warm clothes. Spring Break Specials in Toronto Spring break for school children is in March in Ontario and Toronto’s attractions offer a wide array of spring break specials for children and families. U.S. visitors are benefitting from the attractive exchange rate. At press time it was $1 U.S. equals $1.31 Canadian. The Chelsea Hotel, Toronto in the heart of downtown, has a long history as a super family-friendly hotel. An array of kid-friendly activities is offered year round but during March Break (March 8-17 this year) the hotel really extends the welcome mat starting with a special check-in with welcome gifts for kids. Other family fun activities include bouncy castles, Segway obstacle courses, group movie nights and Bingo games, as well as discounts on many of the city’s top attractions. Visit http://www.chelseatoronto.com for more information.  continued on page 54 March 2019 WNY Family 53