Eastern States Exposition
Year-round show facility and home to The Big E, the Northeast’s largest Fair, every September with concerts, the Avenue of States, Storrowton Village Museum, animals, rides, shopping, and spectacular foods
Home of The Big E, September 17 – October 2, 2021, where guests from throughout the Northeast flock each September to enjoy top-name entertainment, Big E Cream Puffs, and Craz-E Burgers, Big E Circus Spectacular, the Avenue of States, Storrowton Village Museum, Mardi Gras Parades, animals, rides, shopping and foods from around the world during New England’s most colorful season. Located at the crossroads of New England, a short drive from anywhere in the Northeast and an ABA Top 100 Event.
The Big E has been rated the 11th biggest, best, and most exciting state fair in the United States. This is thanks to its wide array of attractions, ranging from delicious food to exciting rides that get guests’ hearts racing and circus performances that simply can’t be matched. It’s been estimated that the Big E is one of the largest events on the entire east coast each year, with a record number of 1,498,605 guests attending in recent years. Visit the Big E this fall to learn why nearly a million and a half guests mark West Springfield, MA, as one of their absolute favorite locations in the region.
Big E Cream Puffs and Craz-E Burgers
Traditionally, one of the most popular attractions at state fairs across the country isn’t actually an attraction at all; it’s the food. When it comes to delicious one-of-a-kind grub, the Big E doesn’t disappoint. On opening day, the Big E Bakery opens its doors to offer delicious homemade Big E Cream Puffs, eclairs, and more to those hungry guests looking for a taste of what West Springfield, MA, has to offer. Whether you’re buying in bulk or just want a single taste, you’re sure to leave the bakery satisfied.
If you’re looking for a heavier meal, then Craz-E Burgers has exactly what you need. Enjoy a great, juicy burger outdoors during New England’s most colorful season, complete with toppings and anything else you might need to complete your state fair culinary experience. With food like this, it’s no wonder The Big E has consistently been named one of the best state fairs in the United States.
Big E Circus Spectacular
Another huge draw to the Big E each fall is the extraordinary circus. Beneath the eye-catching Big-Top, guests will enjoy a huge assortment of unique entertainment opportunities. Dazzling lights highlight the best of the best, with performances from world-class jugglers, flying trapeze artists, and aerial acts. Those looking for a little mystery are certain to enjoy appearances by magicians and fierce animals, while those looking for a laugh will love the clowns who appear throughout the spectacular. The world-famous international cast includes notable names such as the Wallenda family, Bello Nock, the Flying Pages, and many more.
The Avenue of States
Another reason that the Big E is among the top 20 most popular state fairs in the United States is because it provides educational opportunities alongside endless fun and entertainment. The Avenue of States is a prime example of this, allowing guests to step foot into the past of every New England state in as little as an hour.
This section of the fair features realistic replicas of each New England states’ original statehouse, complete with historical sights and sounds that make the experience truly unforgettable. Buying from an array of products at the Connecticut General Store and enjoying a glass of fresh, crisp New Hampshire apple cider are just a couple of the activities history lovers and thrill-seekers alike can enjoy in this corner of the Big E state fair in West Springfield, MA.
Storrowton Village Museum
If the Avenue of States seems like an interesting attraction, then you’ll love the Storrowton Village Museum. Despite the name, this attraction isn’t just an ordinary museum. Instead, it’s a reconstruction of not one but nine authentic century buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. The local buildings are gathered around a central green area, and the Storrowton Village Museum experts offer hands-on educational and touring opportunities throughout the day. This attraction is great for audiences of all ages and allows guests to better understand the rich and longstanding history and culture of West Springfield, MA.
Mardi Gras Parades
Mardi Gras may be a southern tradition, but attendees of the Big E have an opportunity to celebrate this colorful occasion all the same. The event features local high school marching bands, extravagant specialty floats, horse hitches, and, perhaps one of the parade’s biggest attractions, appearances from the well-known and iconic Budweiser and Hallamore Clydesdales. And what would a Mardi Gras parade be without some beads to catch? Don’t miss the most colorful event of the season; tickets go on sale Friday, August 13, and 10 A.M.
Concerts
Concerts are often the centerpiece of a state fair, and the Big E has more than its fair share to boast of. Some of the noteworthy concerts the venue at the Eastern States Exposition has hosted in the past include:
- Johnny Cash
- Destiny’s Child and Beyonce
- Reba McEntire
- Blake Shelton
- Roy Rogers
- Bob Hope
The 2021 concert lineup includes:
- The Goo Goo Dolls
- Machine Gun Kelly
- Flo Rida
- Billy Idol and More!
Full List of Concerts and Ticket Information: https://www.thebige.com/p/entertainment/concerts
Animals
The Big E also gives guests the opportunity to see and interact with a wide variety of livestock animals during their visit. Depending on the day you visit, you could encounter:
- Dairy cows
- Beef cattle
- Sheep
- Pigs
- Goats
- Llamas, alpacas and more
Whether you’re traveling with children or simply an animal lover looking to learn more about the agricultural livestock and other animals kept throughout MA, this is a great attraction to visit while unwinding.
Rides
Of course, no state fair would be complete without rides, and the Big E has some of the best. Get some real air on the Zipper or the Power Surge, or the Yo-Yo, spin circles in the Super Loop, or give yourself a real challenge by taking a ride on the Twin Flip. Enjoy new attractions alongside your old favorites, including Freak Out! If you’re visiting with young children, visit Kiddieland for a range of safer, gentler rides, or simply partake in the many games to be found throughout the fair.
Shopping & Food
When you’re ready to wind down from your fair fun, it’s time to take a visit to the Big E Marketplace for shopping opportunities. Try your luck at the craft fair and find something truly unique, or browse a Big E selection of souvenirs to commemorate your time at the fair. From clothes to home decor and beyond, the shopping opportunities at the Big E are endless, and you’re sure to find just the perfect souvenir to take home with you.
Aside from famous Big E Cream Puffs and Craz-E Burgers, this state fair boasts the most impressive food variety around, with dishes and vendors from around the world. Food options at the fair include dishes from the United States, Mexico, China, Greece, Germany, Poland, Italy, India, and Latin American countries. Whether you want chow mein, the typical fried fair fare, or something a bit healthier and more interesting, you’ll find it at the northeast’s largest fair.
Plan Your Visit Today
Don’t miss out on New England’s biggest event of the year. Contact the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau to learn more about the schedule and event, as well as about other excellent attractions Western Massachusetts has to offer year-round.
