The Big E: New England’s Giant County Fair

Families travel from all over New England to enjoy a day at The Big E — the largest traditional agricultural fair in the Northeast. The Eastern States Exposition, held Sept. 13–29 in West Springfield, Massachusetts, combines entertainment, history, food, agricultural events, activities and old-fashioned fun for all ages.

For kids in 4-H and Future Farmers of America, it’s the highlight of the year, when their projects, products and the animals they raised are awarded prize ribbons. For kids visiting the fair, it’s a day of rides, parades, music, dancing and favorite carnival treats.

Shows on E Stage feature 43 original bands and musicians showcasing talent from across the Northeast, in genres including rock n’ roll, pop rock, R&B, Celtic and soul. Daily performances at 3 and 7 p.m., Monday–Thursday, and 12:30, 4:30 and 8:30 p.m,. Friday–Sunday are free with fair entrance.

The daily Big Parade is a highlight, with high school marching bands, elaborate floats, antique vehicles, magnificent Clydesdales, and a variety of dance and music performers. Kids will love catching beads from Mardi Gras revelers.

In the agricultural exhibits and show area, kids can see live farm animals and prize-winning giant pumpkins, while hopeful gardeners can admire the fruits and vegetables in competitions. Throughout the fair are hands-on activities, children’s games, circus performances, an Irish dance workshop, a chance to learn line dancing and demonstrations that include a mobile glass studio.

Take a speedy trip through all New England along Avenue of States. The only fair in the nation that includes more than one state, The Big E features each state, with replicas of each original statehouse sitting on land actually owned by that state. Inside you will find products and exhibits from each state, a good place to shop for unique gifts; and goodies such as Vermont cheddar cheese, New Hampshire maple syrup and jams made from Cape Cod cranberries or Maine blueberries.

For a glimpse of New England history, stroll through Storrowton Village Museum, a 19^th-century village of nine antique buildings, including a school and a blacksmith shop transported from around the region and reconstructed here almost 100 years ago.