The weather may be a little colder than last year, but organizers of the Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival aren't worried.

After a torrent of snow, rain and hail hampered the festival in 2005, the 10th anniversary of the event, organizers have kept an eye on the weather forecast in recent years.

The unpredictable winter weather this year gave cause for concern. However, according to the Weather Network's website, Mother Nature should co-operate for the bulk of the 13th annual festival.

As of Tuesday, the long-term forecast for Saturday predicted sunny skies, with some cloudy periods, and a high of three degrees. Sunday is expected to be cloudy, with a high of five degrees, though some wet snow flurries are anticipated.

The temperature hovered around the 10-degree mark for much of last year's event, though organizers aren't knocking the forecast this time around.

"It's shaping up to be a fantastic weekend," said Grace Mitchell, co-chair of the event's organizing committee.

While the event is officially slated for Saturday and Sunday, the fairgrounds will come alive Friday night from 6 p.m. to midnight, with rides costing $1 for children and $2 for adults.

Events running throughout the weekend include the midway, sugar-bush tours, horse and wagon rides, a book fair at the library, a craft show at the public school, an art show at the arena, outdoor vendors on River Street, a petting zoo, and entertainment on the outdoor stage.

Saturday and Sunday both open with a pancake breakfast from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sunderland Legion.

At noon Saturday, competition will be fast-paced and furious in the hilarious bed races -- one of the most popular events each year.

On Sunday, those with a soft spot for flapjacks can test their hands, and their appetites, in a pancake-eating contest at 10:30 a.m. in front of the Legion.

New this year is a tractor pull demonstration by Durham West Junior Farmers on Sunday afternoon from 1 to 3 p.m. on Albert Street, just south of River Street.

Programs will be available at the information booth throughout the weekend. For more on the event,  visit the Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival web site at www.maplesyrupfestival.ca