Photo by Michael Leonard

When November’s freezing nights arrive in the Machias region, folks crank up their woodstoves, and the smell of burning seasoned wood wafts along with the fragrance of freshly-tipped balsam branches. Seasonal work is a major economic factor in Washington County, and the crafting of hundreds of thousands of beautiful Christmas wreaths and holiday decorations for shipment across America, provides job opportunities for many people. 

Wreath making can be found across all of Down East in the Machias area, home to major players such as Whitney Wreaths in Machias, and Maine Coast Wreath Co. in Millbridge. In addition to these companies, there are a host of small, independent providers of beautiful and fragrant wreaths.

Photo by Carol Savage

By mid-December Mother Nature has usually graced the area with a blanket of snow, which launches a variety of fun winter activities on the Down East Sunrise Trail. This 96-mile multi-use trail is dedicated to snowmobiling, snow shoeing, cross-country skiing and hiking after the trail is snow covered. The trail traverses some of Maine’s most pristine landscapes of blueberry barrens, forests and breathtaking coastal scenes. There are access points along the entire trail. In Machias one can get on the trail just before the causeway/dike.

Great accommodations and dining opportunities make Machias a perfect winter destination. Mason’s Brewing Co., Helen’s Restaurant, and Pat’s Pizza are several of Down East’s excellent options.

Superior amenities for your winter get away will be found at both The Bluebird Motel and the Machias River Inn.

The town of Machias and the Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce provide public ice skating at the South Side Ball Field, to provide folks with another great way to enjoy winter fun. For more information, contact the Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce – (207) 255-4402.

Jim Harnedy (1932-2020)

— Story by Jim Harnedy. In his third professional career, Jim was the author of a number of books and magazine articles, as well as being an editor and co-publisher of several Maine magazines. Jim passed away in the spring of 2020, and it is with great fondness that we celebrate his many contributions to the Activities Guide of Maine.