Entertainment/Leisure

Item Description

You and three friends can visit The Big E for a day! Located in West Springfield, MA, the Big E will take place September 14th to September 3oth this fall. 

Eastern States Exposition, home of The Big E, has presented the finest livestock, the most innovative commercial, industrial and artistic developments, and the highest caliber of varied entertainment to the people of the Northeastern United States for more than eight decades. More than one million people now attend the 17 day Big E, an annual autumn extravaganza of entertainment, exhibits and agriculture.  

During The Big E, over 25 breeds of cattle, sheep, goats and hogs are on display in livestock events. Breeders from all over the country and from other nations enter their animals in this, the largest livestock show in the East. The title, "Eastern States Exposition Grand Champion," is the coveted prize at stake.  

In addition to the livestock shows, New England traditions such as pulling contests and cow milking can be experienced at The Big E. . The Avenue of Agriculture showcases animals and informative exhibits on agriculture and its uses in daily life.  

One of the oldest and most prestigious in the country, the Eastern States Exposition Horse Show is an eagerly-anticipated event. Additional equine events include the 4-H Horse Show and the Draft Horse Show.  

Many of the nation's finest craftspeople and artisans exhibit their work in Craft Common on the back green of Storrowton Village and along Hampden Avenue. On the Village green, visitors will find 19th century craft demonstrators as well as family entertainment on the gazebo. Traditional Early American crafts and chores are demonstrated within the historic buildings that comprise the Village.

When frivolity is in order, fairgoers can step onto the Magic Midway - the world's largest traveling midway - featuring the 115 foot high Giant Wheel, and the Drop of Fear, rides, games and many other attractions. Especially for children, The Big E offers kiddie rides, a petting zoo, barnyard friends and camel and elephant rides. As evening approaches, the whole fair celebrates with the Grande Parade, and as of 2000, the spectacular Mardi Gras Parade featuring six authentic, custom built floats direct from New Orleans.

The Big E also features free entertainment such as a circus, exhilarating band concerts, demonstrations by celebrity chefs and top-name talent.

Restaurant facilities, offering everything from a snack to a meal - and featuring foods from different regions and nations, are found throughout the grounds. The Exposition also maintains its own security, fire and first-aid facilities for the safety and convenience of its Fair visitors.