Heritage Syrup Festival

The tradition of ribbon cane syrup making is commemorated at the Annual Heritage Syrup Festival, held the second Saturday of November from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The highlight of the only folk life festival in East Texas is the syrup making demonstration on the Depot Museum grounds. Experienced syrup makers operate the museum’s antique mule powered equipment to produce old fashioned cane syrup. While the syrup cooks, other folk artists demonstrate the techniques of lace making, rope making, basket making, blacksmithing, wood carving, quilting, and other old-time survival skills. Folk singers entertain, antique tractors whine, a petting zoo, and local civic organizations offer a varied selection of food and beverages. Downtown Henderson is alive with music, food, and vendors, with a hayride shuttle connecting the two festival areas.