Margaretta Days Festival

The 16th Annual Margaretta Days Festival and Crafts Fair is sponsored by the Machias Historical Society and held on the Mall area of the University of Maine at Machias. The Festival celebrates our community’s unique history as the “Lexington of the Sea” and the beginning of the American Revolution Downeast, specifically the “Battle of the Margaretta” - first Naval Battle of the American Revolution and beginning of the US Merchant Marines - and the “Battle of the Rim”, when the British returned for revenge and were defeated by the Patriots and their allies, the Passamaquoddy, Maliseets and Penobscot nations.

Named one of Yankee Magazine’s 2010 Top 20 Events - - we take you back in time to life in 1775. History comes alive with an encampment of soldier re-enactors and period demonstrations such as blacksmithing, timber framing and weaving, plus Passamaquoddy Tribal members, entertainment (music, storytelling, informative talks, historical presentations, etc.) children’s activities, fun, games, food, and you - contemporary crafters and artists.

Our festival grows larger every year. In 2018 several Native Americans came and erected a large tepee and sold Indian tacos. Also, a group of local enthusiasts formed their own colonial re-enacter group. Many of them are actual descendants of the original patriots. That group has gone on to build, and then burn, a small homestead in order to accurately depict "The Battle of the Rim". The "Committee of Safety", as they are now known, named after the original group of patriots who protected this area so many years ago, will again provide a taste of life in the 1700's with their encampment. Also, last year we were joined by a Drum and Fife group from York County who entertained the attendees and will be returning this year.