Monday marked the first time Americans were allowed to travel by land into Canada since the border crossings were closed to non-essential travel since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cars lined up all the way across Ferry Point Bridge crossing the bridge between St. Stephen and Calais, Maine for the first time in over 16 months, making for an hour and a half wait to cross. Some travellers crossed by foot, including Helena McLean's family friend whose mother drove her from New Hampshire to the Calais border where she crossed as a pedestrian to be reunited with her best friend.

"I'm excited to see her again. She's like my second family," said McLean.

In order to cross at land borders, Americans have to be fully vaccinated 14 days prior to their trip and must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular test taken within 72 hours prior to entering. They are also required to submit their vaccination documents and a detailed travel log using the ArriveCAN app. For Mallory and Michelle Bagswell of Mansfield, Connecticut, who haven't been to their summer home on Prince Edward Island in a year and a half, the complicated process was well worth the effort.

"We can't wait to have mussels tonight and reconnect with our friends," said Michelle Bagswell.

Despite the long line at the border, the main purpose of most people's trip was for family and friend reunions and extended Maritime vacations. St. Stephen Mayor Allan MacEachern isn't expecting to see a big boost in the local economy from American travelers just yet.

"It's not the easiest process just to come over to shop for the day," said Mayor MacEachern.

The St. Andrews Masters tennis tournament drew participants and spectators from across Canada to region this past weekend. Former New Brunswick Premier Brian Gallant was victorious in both the men's 35 division singles and the men's 30 doubles.

St. Stephen's Chocolate Fest was another big tourism draw to the region last week. Established in 1984, St. Stephen’s beloved Chocolate Fest is held annually on the first week of August. It is a unique celebration of the town’s sweet chocolate heritage put on by the Ganong. Bros, Canada’s oldest family owned company. This festival brought so much attention to the company and the town that St. Stephen was named Canada’s Chocolate town in the year 2000.

Some of the activities held at the celebration include chocolate bark making where you have the opportunity to make your own ganong chocolate, Chocolate treasure hunts, picnic’s in the park, dance parties and so much more! The festival attracts visitors from across the province and beyond.