September 3, 2025 – Essex Heritage announces the return of its annual Trails & Sails event series featuring hundreds of free activities from September 13-28 across Essex County, Massachusetts. This year's lineup introduces several new events and partnering organizations, making it bigger and better than ever.

This beloved community program spans all 34 cities and towns of the Essex National Heritage Area, offering unprecedented access to the region's many historic sites, natural landscapes, and cultural centers north of Boston. From reenactments and nature walks to schooner sails and storytelling, the series connects residents and visitors to new experiences unique to the area.

"After 24 years, we're still discovering new stories and new ways to connect people to this incredible region," said Annie Harris, Essex Heritage CEO. "This year's program reflects the growing enthusiasm from our community partners and the public's appetite for authentic, accessible experiences that you simply can't find anywhere else."

Four Compelling Themes Drive 2025 Programming

Essex County Revolution 250 takes center stage as communities prepare for America's 250th anniversary commemoration. Special events will explore Essex County's pivotal but often overlooked contributions to the Revolutionary War, from maritime resistance to local patriot networks.

From Past to Present uncovers the lesser-known stories that shaped Essex County, highlighting voices and experiences that are often overlooked. These events don't just explore our past, they demonstrate how gaining a better understanding of it can guide us forward.

Exploring Our Coast and Waterways offers timely education about the region's marine and freshwater resources. As climate events intensify, these activities help participants understand and appreciate the waterways that define Essex County's landscape, history, and economy.

Outdoor Adventures showcases Essex County's remarkable natural diversity, from coastal marshes to inland forests. These events highlight ongoing conservation efforts and invite participants to discover how they can enjoy and support the region's green spaces.

Trails & Sails Bolsters Cultural Tourism and Builds Community Connections
Trails & Sails focuses on fostering lasting connections between residents and their local heritage. Many participants discover historic sites, trails, and cultural resources they pass daily but have never experienced.

While the program's scale and scope continue to grow, Essex Heritage's community-driven approach remains the same. Participating organizations don't just host events, they create experiences that reflect their communities' authentic character and current priorities.

Accessible Adventures for All

All Trails & Sails events remain completely free, with activities scheduled daily to accommodate different schedules and interests. While many events are “open doors” or first-come, first-served, some activities do require registration, so visit the website to learn how to sign-up in advance. 

Complete event listings and registration details are available at www.trailsandsails.org, with the full online schedule available at https://trailsandsails.org/events. Printed guidebooks have been distributed to local libraries and visitor centers throughout Essex County.

Trails & Sails 2025 is generously sponsored by Eastern Bank, Salem Five Charitable Foundation, and Institution for Savings.

About Essex Heritage and the Essex National Heritage Area
Essex Heritage is a non-profit organization that takes a community-driven approach to heritage conservation and economic development. Working through public-private partnerships, Essex Heritage uses the Area's heritage resources in unique ways to engage diverse audiences across the 500-square-mile Essex National Heritage Area.