The long-awaited return of The Big E is here! The 17-day fair celebrates New England in a way that can’t be found anywhere else but right here in Western Mass. Here are the things you won’t want to miss on your next visit to The Big E:

The Food
Fair food is one of the biggest draws at The Big E and this year is no different. The traditional fan favorites like the Maine Baked Potato, Big E Cream Puff, and New Hampshire Kettle Corn will be back but there are also some new foods to be tried. Instead of the traditional Big E Cream Puff try the new pumpkin flavor! The Big E will also be offering a couple of new savory food options including The Meatball Factory’s Bacon Wrapped Dilly Dilly Dog and The New England Craft Pub Taco “Bag” including Fritos, Fire Roasted Corn Salas & Cheese! Angela’s Pizza, located on Commonwealth Ave is now offering a Pickle Pizza a white garlic sauce base, topped with mozzarella cheese and dill pickles. Drizzled with ranch and dill seasoning after being cooked. To make this easy, use the Big E’s new food finder to find your next fair food find.

The Entertainment
Popular artists and up-and-coming musicians perform on three stages throughout the 17-day fair. From Machine Gun Kelly and FloRida to Plain White Tees and Pat Benatar, there’s something to fit every musical taste. While arena shows require a separate ticket, free shows are presented at the Court of Honor and The E Stage daily. The Big Circus Spectacular is also back with world-class jugglers, flying trapeze artists, magicians, aerial acts, clowns and animals galore. Of course, no visit to The Big E is complete without the Mardi Gras Parade – a daily procession of High School Marching Bands, specialty floats, horse hitches and more. See the magnificent Budweiser Clydesdales, catch a few beads from the Mardi Gras revelers and dance to rockin’ tunes.

The Agriculture
At its core, The Big E is a celebrated agricultural fair. Livestock, giant vegetables and other 4-H exhibits are a big draw and when it comes to fair animals, The Big E has it covered. Educational displays are found in Farm-A-Rama, daily events like working sheepdog demonstrations and The Big E’s signature equestrian shows are hosted in the historic, 5,900-seat Coliseum.

The Avenue of States
How can you visit all 6 New England states in one day? Head to The Big E. On this educational thoroughfare you’ll see impressive replicas of each New England state’s original statehouse sitting on land actually owned by that state. Step inside and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and tastes of each New England state. See berries straight from the bog in Massachusetts, one of the few places on earth where cranberries grow! Enjoy the ever popular Maine baked potato with a dollop of sour cream and other tasty toppings. Shop for a wide array of local products stocked at the Connecticut General Store. Have a glass of cool, crisp New Hampshire apple cider. Browse fine Rhode Island jewelry. Bring home a block of zesty Vermont cheddar cheese.

Rest assured, The Big E has implemented extensive safety and cleaning protocols for the duration of The Fair. So get your tickets in advance, and enjoy New England’s Great State Fair!