"Down East" or "Downeast" is a term for parts of eastern coastal New England and Canada, particularly the U.S. state of Maine and Canada's Maritime Provinces, an area that closely corresponds to the historical French territory of Acadia. The phrase apparently derives from sailing terminology: sailors from western ports sailed downwind toward the east to reach the area.
A person from this area may be called a "down-easter." Within Maine, the phrase "down east" may refer specifically to the state's easternmost regions, also called Down East Maine.
The Downeast Maine National Heritage Area was established in the National Heritage Area Act in 2022.[1] The National Heritage Area will help preserve more historic and cultural sites in Hancock and Washington counties.[2][3]