Maple Fest highlights community connection as it grows in southern Illinois

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) — Families from across southern Illinois gathered this weekend for Maple Fest, a long-running event that continues to grow while bringing the community together.

Hosted at Touch of Nature in Carbondale, the festival has been a staple in the region for more than 30 years. What began as a small educational program has evolved into a large community event, drawing thousands of people each year.

Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature, said the event’s growth over time highlights its impact.

“20 years ago, I took part in my first Maple Fest and it was a very big crowd — I think we had 60 or 70 people show up,” Croft said. “And now, 20 years later, I think this weekend we’re going to see close to 1,500 to 2,000 people. So talk about a really cool growth over two decades.”

While the event features a variety of activities, organizers say its purpose goes beyond the demonstrations and attractions.

“You know, there’s something about the outdoors that just brings people together,” Croft said. “And so just seeing family members come out… it makes my heart happy to see families enjoying southern Illinois.”

Community leaders say events like Maple Fest also help connect people to the region as a whole.

“And what I absolutely love about southern Illinois and Carbondale is that there are just so many different events that you can expect and go to,” said Dena Haun, tourism and special events coordinator. “It’s such a great, engaging way to get people out in the community to support local artists, and to connect with everything happening throughout the region.”

Haun said Maple Fest also serves as a starting point for a busy season of events across southern Illinois, helping showcase local talent and encourage community involvement.

As spring begins, organizers say the festival continues to serve as both a tradition and a reminder of the importance of gathering outdoors.