The Big E, also known as The Eastern States Exposition, is billed as "New England's Great State Fair". It is the 6th largest agricultural fair in the United States, and the largest in the northeastern portion of the country.
The Big E takes place every autumn in West Springfield, Massachusetts. In 2005, it will run from Friday, September 16 through Sunday, October 2. It is too late in the year to affect attendance at the nearby Six Flags New England in Agawam.
History
The first Eastern States Exposition occurred in 1917. It was originally conceived by Joshua L. Brooks as a way to help bolster the region's farming industry. The Exposition featured displays of new innovations in the industry, as well as holding contests designed to encourage farmers to better themselves through competition.
Since the first Exposition, only the World War I and World War II have interupted the annual tradition. The fair now features thousands of games, rides, shows, attractions, vendors, and exhibits, while still maintaining its roots as an agricultural and farming attraction.
State Buildings
One of the most interesting attractions at the Big E is the Avenue of the States. The avenue contains full-scale replicas of the original statehouses of each of the New England states (New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, and Rhode Island). Much like a national embassy, the buildings and the land on which they sit are actually owned by the respective states. As one walks onto the Vermont building's property, one is literally entering Vermont.
The State Buildings feature exhibits and vendors which best exemplify the heritage and tradition (and of course, the food!) of each state. Many fairgoers, upon entering the fairgrounds, will immediately head to the Avenue of the States to visit each State Building before continuing to the rest of the fair.
Attractions
In addition to the Avenue of the States, The Big E features several different attractions. Among those attractions are:
- Storrowtown Village, where fairgoers can experience New England life from the 19th century.
- The Midland, home to carnival rides and games
- The Better Living Center, a large collection of vendors with a common theme of improving every day life
- The Big Top Circus
- The Stunt Show, a 45 minute performance featuring automobile stunts
- The Colliseum, featuring daily horse shows
- The Mallory Complex, which houses livestock of several different varieties
- The Main Stage, on which national and local musical groups put on daily shows. Past performers include:
- Mardi-Gras Parade
- Vendors and Eateries located throughout the fair
Statistics
The Big E is open every year for 2 weeks and 3 weekends. Each year, the fair regularly brings in over one million fairgoers.
External link
The Big E's official website
