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The Big E
The Big E in West Springfield, Massachusetts in 2007
StatusActive
GenreAgricultural show
BeginsSecond Friday after Labor Day
EndsSeventeen days after it opens
FrequencyAnnual
VenueEastern States Exposition
Locations1305 Memorial Ave. West Springfield, MA 01089
Inaugurated1917 (1917)
FounderJoshua L. Brooks
Attendance1,633,935 (2024)[1]
AreaNew England
Websitethebige.com

The Big E, formally known as The Eastern States Exposition, is an annual fair in West Springfield, Massachusetts, which opens on the second Friday after Labor Day and runs for seventeen days.

It is billed as "New England's Great State Fair", the largest agricultural event on the eastern seaboard and the fifth-largest fair in the nation.[2] The Big E is inclusive of all six New England states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

History

[edit]
The fair promoted on a period post card, c. 1930–1945

The first Eastern States Exposition occurred in October 1916 in West Springfield, Massachusetts, and was called the Eastern States Agricultural and Industrial Exposition. All six New England states, plus Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, participated.[3] Joshua L. Brooks conceived it to help promote agriculture and educate young people with the skills and knowledge needed in agricultural vocations. The Exposition featured displays of innovations in the industry and held contests designed to encourage farmers to better themselves through competition.[4]

The Boys & Girls Clubs of America partnered with the Exposition to organize youth competitions, in which prizes were awarded for best produce, jams, breads, raised hens, planting techniques, and other categories. The youth component drew competitors from all ten participating states and was deemed "a triumph in a new type of education".[3] An eight-day camp program was established at Springfield's Camp Vail for all youths who placed first or second in judged competitions.[5]

The ten-state format continued into the 1920s, with the month of the Exposition moving to September. According to officials, the "Eastern States movement" aimed to make the ten states "more nearly self-supporting food-wise and possess a large, prosperous and contented farming population". Emphasis on the development of young farmers continued with the establishment of "Baby Beef Clubs" in 1920 to help youths buy, raise, exhibit, and sell livestock at the event.[6]

Newspaper ad for the Eastern States Exposition, 1938

The exposition grew beyond agriculture and industry within its first few years. In 1923, the Massachusetts Department of Health built a model schoolhouse on the fairgrounds, offering free medical and dental examinations.[7] The rise of the eugenics movement in the 1920s led to the inclusion of "Fitter Family" contests, in which prizes were awarded to individuals and families based on appearance and ethnic background.[8][9] Exhibits on Native American culture were added, including a tipi exhibit hosted by Reginald and Gladys Laubin in 1926.[10] Entertainment elements were added by the 1930s, including demonstrations of "automobile polo" (featuring acrobats playing polo while driving Ford cars) and competitive performances by high school bands.[11][12]

By 1940, the exposition had focused more on the six New England states. At that year's horse show in West Springfield, competitors from Delaware, New Jersey, and New York were placed in the open classes instead of the New England division.[13]

In 1966, for its fiftieth anniversary, the fair began marketing itself as "The Big E". The "E" stands for what organizers said was an emphasis on "entertainment, education and excitement".[14]

Since the first fair, only World War I and World War II, during which the military requisitioned the grounds as storage depots, and the COVID-19 pandemic have interrupted the annual tradition.[4][15]

Attractions

[edit]

Avenue of States

[edit]
Avenue of States

The Avenue of States contains life-size replicas of the six original New England statehouses, as well as the New England Grange House. In actuality, the state houses are not replicas but rather modeled after original state houses in most instances. The buildings for New Hampshire and Vermont bear no resemblance to their original state houses.

These buildings feature exhibits and vendors that exemplify the heritage, food, and traditions of each state as a way of promoting tourism. For example, the Maine House offers lobster, blueberries, and baked potatoes, while the Vermont House has Ben and Jerry's ice cream, maple syrup, and Cabot cheese.[16] Vendors also sell locally made products and handicrafts.[16] The Maine baked potatoes have become an icon, with buyers regularly joining long lines during the fair's busier periods. The Connecticut building supplies Timex watches as well as Lego, both companies which were founded in that state. The Rhode Island building features Del's Lemonade[16] and Blount Seafood Clamcakes and Chowder, as well as books from Rhode Island author C. M. Eddy, Jr., who has links back to H. P. Lovecraft and Houdini in Rhode Island.

Much like national embassies, the statehouses and the land on which they sit are owned by the respective jurisdiction. Through an arrangement with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, they are administered by representatives from each state's police force during the fair. Due to this distinction, tickets for each of the six lotteries can be purchased among the houses.

Livestock and animals

[edit]

The Big E remains true to its agricultural roots today, with more than 7,100 4-H and FFA participants and 1,100 open-show exhibitors, as well as educational displays and attractions.[citation needed]

In keeping with the fair's agricultural roots, there are many livestock displays at The Big E. The Big E Coliseum features daily horse shows, while the Mallary Complex houses livestock and other farm animals, including goats, chickens, pigs, and sheep.

Other animals, such as those found at petting zoos or in The Big E Circus Spectacular, are also featured at The Big E. There are also many 4-H youth livestock shows and a sale of the 4-H steers.

Food

[edit]

Many foods representing New England cuisine can be found at The Big E, along with traditional fair foods like fried dough, corn dogs, and lemonade. Aside from the state houses, food sellers can be found throughout the main vendor areas and around the perimeter of the fairgrounds.

Since 2000, The Big E has endeavored to introduce its own signature foods. This began in 2002 when The Big E introduced Big E Cream Puffs, which it intended to be the signature dessert of the Fair.[17] The Big E features the cream puffs in some of its advertising; in addition, the cream puffs have been featured on local and national TV shows, including Live! with Regis and Kelly. This was followed by the introduction in 2004 of "The Big (Chocolate) Eclairs" and, in 2006, of Big E Chocolate Chip Cookies, made with Ghirardelli chocolate. In 2009, they introduced the "Craz-E Burger", which is a bacon cheeseburger on a glazed donut rather than a bun.

Vendors

[edit]

Small shops are a primary attraction of The Big E. Vendors can be found across most of the fairgrounds, selling items ranging from state-specific trinkets and regional memorabilia to household goods, clothing, and accessories. Many vendors set up shops selling the same goods in multiple areas of the fair in order to attract as many customers as possible.

The Better Living Center is the largest vendor area, featuring household wares, home improvement services, cookware, and health supplements. The International Building is home to vendors selling items from other cultures, in particular those with a common connection with many New Englanders, in particular Irish and Italian imported goods.

Concerts

[edit]

The Xfinity Arena provides an open-air performing area with seating for over 6,000 people. Each weekend, big-name bands and musicians come to perform on this stage. There are ticketed shows (admission to the fair is included with the purchase of a concert ticket as long as it is purchased before the date of the show) as well as a number of free shows that are seated on a "first-come, first-served" basis.

The Court of Honor Stage, located right in the heart of the fairgrounds, also offers free concerts.

Springfield cowgirls, c. 1930

Other attractions

[edit]
  • Storrowton Village, where fairgoers can experience New England life from the 19th century.
  • The Midway, home to carnival rides and games, is operated by North American Midway Entertainment. The Giant Slide is 46 feet high and 135 feet long. It was originally erected near Gate 5 in 1969 but moved to its current spot behind the Better Living Center in 1983.[18]
  • A daily Mardi Gras-style parade
  • The Eastern States Coliseum, more colloquially known as the "Big E Coliseum", is an arena on the grounds where numerous equestrian contests and other special events are held. The building was formerly a professional ice hockey venue.
  • Animatronic shows, namely Melody Farm Follies in the "Farm-A-Rama" section and, in 2015 and 2016, the Billy Bob's Bear-A-Dise traveling Rock-afire Explosion show.

Other uses

[edit]

The fairgrounds are used for other events throughout the year, including:

In January 2013, the Exposition joined with Hard Rock International in a proposal to build a casino and hotel on 40 acres of the fairground in a bid for the single casino license available in Western Massachusetts.[20] In a town referendum on September 10, the voters of West Springfield voted the project down.

Annual visitors

[edit]
Year Visitors
2025 1,538,463[1]
2024 1,633,935[1]
2023 1,427,234[1]
2022 1,603,354[21]
2021 1,498,774[1]
2020 Not held[15]
2019 1,629,527[1]
2018 1,543,470[22]
2017 1,525,553[22]
2016 1,418,042[23]
2015 1,345,961[24]
2014 1,498,605[25]
2013 1,481,917[25]
2012 1,365,896[26]
2011 1,201,428[27]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

The Eastern States Exposition

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Eastern States Exposition, commonly known as The Big E, is a nonprofit annual fair and exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, founded in 1916 by Joshua L. Brooks to advance New England agriculture, demonstrate innovative farming techniques, and foster regional economic self-reliance across the six New England states. Held over 17 days from mid-September to early October on 175 acres of grounds, it is the world's only multi-state fair, featuring state-specific exhibits along the Avenue of States, livestock shows, historical demonstrations at Storrowton Village Museum, midway amusements, culinary specialties, and free entertainment without government subsidies. In 2024, The Big E set an all-time attendance record of 1,633,935 visitors, ranking it the fourth-largest fair in North America by attendance. Beyond the flagship event, the Exposition hosts over 100 year-round activities, including equestrian competitions and agricultural contests, contributing nearly $1.2 billion in regional economic impact through tourism, jobs, and vendor activity.

History

Founding and Early Years

The Eastern States Exposition originated from concerns over the declining agricultural sector in during the early , where high costs and outdated methods threatened farming viability. Joshua L. Brooks, a Springfield printer, entrepreneur, and owner of a 300-acre in , initiated efforts to revitalize the industry through cooperative innovation and exposure to modern techniques. Supported by figures like Horace A. Moses, owner of the Strathmore Paper Company, Brooks assembled a group of businessmen to establish an exposition that would integrate with industrial advancements, fostering efficiency via demonstrations, competitions, and . On May 27, 1914, the Eastern States Agricultural and Industrial Exposition was formally incorporated to pursue these goals, marking the organizational foundation. The group acquired 175 acres of swampland along the Westfield River in , transforming it into fairgrounds with infrastructure including barns accommodating over 2,000 cattle, a racetrack, Machinery Hall, and an arena modeled after the Roman Coliseum. Funding of $750,000 enabled this rapid development, reflecting Brooks' determination to create a regional hub for agricultural promotion. The inaugural event, the National Dairy Show—the first such gathering east of —opened in September 1916, drawing 45,000 attendees and showcasing dairy alongside educational exhibits on improved farming practices. The following year, the first full Eastern States Exposition convened in October 1917 under Brooks' leadership with twelve community collaborators, attracting 138,000 visitors and emphasizing judging, crop displays, and machinery innovations to encourage youth involvement in agriculture. These early fairs prioritized empirical demonstrations of causal factors in agricultural success, such as and , amid disruptions that underscored food production needs. In its nascent phase through the , the exposition expanded beyond pure by incorporating industrial conferences, such as the gathering of 122 , to illustrate synergies between farming and . Attendance grew steadily, with state-specific buildings emerging by 1919, including ' replica of the State House on the Avenue of States, symbolizing regional unity in agricultural advocacy. This period solidified the event's role in countering rural depopulation through practical, evidence-based exhibits, though it faced interruptions only during the World Wars.

Expansion and Institutional Growth

The Eastern States Exposition's physical expansion began shortly after its founding, with the acquisition of 175 acres in , enabling the construction of the Coliseum and cattle barns by 1916 to host initial events like the National Dairy Show. This infrastructure supported the inaugural fair in 1917, which drew 138,000 attendees, and laid the groundwork for subsequent developments amid rising regional agricultural and industrial interest. Key expansions included the phased construction of the Avenue of States buildings, symbolizing multi-state collaboration: the building opened in 1919, followed by , , , and structures in , and Rhode Island's in 1958. In 1926, Storrowton Village Museum was established as a exhibit, incorporating nine donated period buildings by 1930 to showcase heritage and attract broader audiences. Later additions, such as the 123,000-square-foot Better Living Center, contributed to a total of 355,000 square feet in rentable exhibit space, facilitating diverse commercial and educational displays. Institutionally, the Exposition was chartered under law as a nonprofit educational corporation, emphasizing agricultural advancement and governed by a volunteer board of trustees representing the six states to ensure balanced regional input. Operational growth manifested in extending the annual fair from 12 to 17 days starting in 1995, boosting capacity and revenue while sustaining its mission. Attendance surged accordingly, reaching over 1 million visitors annually by the late and peaking at 1.63 million in 2024, reflecting institutional maturity and expanded scope beyond to include year-round events generating nearly $1.2 billion in regional economic impact.

Modern Era and Recent Developments

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the Eastern States Exposition shifted toward greater year-round utilization of its facilities, hosting over 120 events annually beyond The Big E, including shows, horse competitions, consumer expos, and agricultural activities to promote regional industry and . This diversification supported steady revenue growth, with The Big E accounting for 87% of total income while enabling multi-purpose use of the 375-acre grounds. The disrupted operations, leading to the cancellation of the 2020 Big E fair due to health and safety concerns for its typical 1.6 million attendees. The event resumed in under capacity limits and protocols, achieving strong including a single-day record despite ongoing challenges. Attendance surged in subsequent years, culminating in an all-time high of 1,633,935 visitors in over 17 days, alongside a single-day peak of 178,608. Recent developments addressed from the 2024 surge, with organizers in 2025 implementing crowd-dispersal measures such as adjusted marketing and entry incentives, yielding 1,538,463 attendees—a 6% decline viewed as intentional for improved visitor experience. Infrastructure updates included the 2024 renovation of the state building on the Avenue of States, featuring refreshed interiors aligned with state branding, marking the first major overhaul since the late 1990s. The Exposition's broader economic footprint, per its 2024 , generated $1.167 billion in regional impact, sustaining over 8,000 jobs and $440 million in personal income primarily through The Big E.

Facilities and Infrastructure

Grounds and Layout

The Eastern States Exposition grounds span 175 acres along Memorial Avenue in , originally purchased as swampland in 1916 for development into a multi-purpose fair site. The layout organizes key features around central pathways, with main entrances facilitating access to clustered exhibition halls, agricultural zones, and entertainment areas. At the heart of the grounds lies the Avenue of States, a linear promenade extending near Gate 1 and lined with architecturally distinctive pavilions representing , , , , , and , each showcasing regional products and culture. Adjacent to this avenue are barns capable of housing over 2,000 head of along with facilities for sheep and swine, supporting extensive agricultural displays. The Coliseum occupies a central position, featuring a 100-foot by 200-foot arena with fixed seating for 5,000 spectators, primarily used for equestrian events and competitions. Exhibition buildings, including the 129,400-square-foot Mallary Complex, the adjacent 55,000-square-foot Young Building, and the Better Living Center, form a contiguous indoor exhibit zone totaling more than 355,000 square feet for vendors and shows. Further afield, the midway area accommodates rides and games, while Storrowton Village provides a park-like setting with reconstructed 19th-century structures. This configuration enables efficient flow for the annual fair's 1.5 million visitors, with parking and interstate access integrated into the perimeter.

Key Buildings and Venues

The Coliseum, constructed in , serves as a central multi-purpose arena with a 100 ft. by 200 ft. center ring and fixed seating for approximately 5,000 spectators, primarily hosting equestrian events, shows, and competitions during The Big E. The Better Living Center, the largest indoor venue at 123,000 square feet of air-conditioned exhibit space, accommodates consumer goods vendors, trade shows, and shopping areas featuring crafts, home products, and demonstrations. The Mallary Complex, spanning 129,400 square feet, functions as the primary hub for agricultural displays, including exhibits such as , chickens, pigs, sheep, and interactions with farmers showcasing field crops and products. The Avenue of States comprises six one-third-scale replica statehouses owned and operated by , , , , , and , designed to highlight each state's , industry, and cultural products like cranberries, baked potatoes, and . Additional performance venues include the open-air Big E Arena, which hosts headline concerts and entertainment for large crowds, and the Court of Honor Stage, offering free daily shows. ![Avenue of States at The Big E][float-right]

Storrowton Village

Storrowton Village is a reconstructed 19th-century village located on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition in , comprising nine authentic 18th- and 19th-century buildings originally from and . The village serves as a , immersing visitors in early American rural life through preserved and period demonstrations. The village originated from the vision of Helen Osborne Storrow, a Boston philanthropist and trustee of the Eastern States Exposition, who initiated the project in 1926 with a temporary kitchen exhibit for a handicraft display. In 1927, Storrow purchased and relocated an 18th-century farmstead from West Brookfield, Massachusetts, for $200, marking the first permanent structure; subsequent antique buildings were acquired, dismantled, transported, and reassembled to form the village by around 1930. Funded personally by Storrow, the endeavor aimed to educate fairgoers on historical New England domestic and community life amid the Exposition's agricultural focus. The buildings, dating from 1767 to 1853, include residential homes, a schoolhouse, a meetinghouse, a , and a , arranged around a central to replicate a typical early American settlement. These structures were not originally sited together but were curated for authenticity and instructional value, with interiors furnished to reflect period use. Storrowton Tavern, one of the key edifices, operates as a offering New England cuisine year-round. During the annual Eastern States Exposition, held from September 12 to 28, Storrowton Village opens daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., featuring self-guided tours, costumed interpreters, and demonstrations such as blacksmithing, , and to illustrate 19th-century crafts and daily routines. Outside the fair season, the village hosts drop-in tours from mid-June through August, Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., emphasizing historical education over commercial entertainment.

The Big E Fair

Overview and Core Features

The Big E fair, the annual centerpiece of the Eastern States Exposition, spans 17 consecutive days each September on the organization's 375-acre grounds in . It serves as a premier agricultural and cultural event, attracting 1,538,463 visitors in 2025 and setting a record of 1,633,935 in 2024, positioning it among the top ten fairs in and the largest on the East Coast. The fair emphasizes New England's agricultural heritage through extensive exhibitions, competitive events, and educational displays, while incorporating modern elements such as commercial marketplaces, culinary offerings, and family-oriented entertainment. Core agricultural features include daily livestock shows featuring beef and dairy cattle, goats, sheep, swine, and poultry, alongside equestrian performances in the Big E Coliseum and hands-on demonstrations like milking contests and 4-H youth exhibits. The event hosts competitive judging for giant vegetables, baked goods, and crafts, underscoring its roots in promoting regional farming practices and rural traditions. Educational components, such as the Farm-A-Rama parade and interactive agricultural booths, aim to connect urban attendees with food production processes. Beyond , the fair's supports diverse attractions, including a midway with amusement rides, live concerts on multiple stages, and over 100 food vendors offering regional specialties like and chowder competitions. Commercial buildings house thousands of vendors selling crafts, machinery, and consumer goods, complemented by state-themed pavilions along the Avenue of States that highlight regional industries and histories. Special themed days, parades, and ceremonies enhance the festive atmosphere, drawing families for a blend of and across the expansive fairgrounds.

Avenue of States

The Avenue of States features six buildings, each a one-third-scale replica of the respective state capitol for , , , , [Rhode Island](/page/Rhode Island), and . These structures, owned by their respective states, serve as showcases for regional , industry, culture, and innovations, with each state operating exhibits that promote local products and heritage. The concept originated with Eastern States Exposition founder Joshua L. Brooks, who aimed to unite through collaborative promotion of agriculture and economic interests, making it the only multi-state fair of its kind in the United States. Construction of the buildings began with the Massachusetts State Exposition Building in 1918, the first of the series, followed by Maine in 1925, Vermont shortly thereafter, New Hampshire and Connecticut in the 1930s (with Connecticut's dedicated in 1938), and Rhode Island in 1958. The buildings open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the 17-day fair, allowing visitors to tour interiors that replicate statehouse designs while displaying educational exhibits on topics like Massachusetts cranberries or Maine forestry. Visitors experience interactive elements including food sampling—such as baked potatoes in , cheddar cheese in , and apple cider in —and shopping opportunities featuring state-specific goods like Rhode Island jewelry or Connecticut general store items. These exhibits emphasize agricultural outputs, artisanal crafts, and economic contributions, drawing significant foot traffic amid the fair's annual attendance exceeding 1.5 million.

Agricultural and Livestock Exhibits

The agricultural and livestock exhibits at the Eastern States Exposition emphasize competitive judging of quality, breeding standards, and development in husbandry practices, drawing participants from across the and abroad to showcase regional agricultural excellence. These displays, held primarily in the Mallary Complex and Coliseum during the annual fair in , feature over 25 breeds of , sheep, goats, and hogs, alongside , camelids, and horses, with events spanning open shows, junior divisions, and specialized trials. Rooted in the exposition's founding event—the National Dairy Show of October 1916, which relocated from and attracted 45,308 attendees for dairy cattle evaluations—the livestock program has evolved into one of the Northeast's premier platforms for breed promotion and genetic selection. Early expansions in 1917 incorporated broader judging alongside , establishing a tradition of premium awards for conformation, productivity, and market readiness, as detailed in the annual premium book offering specific prizes like those for grand champion rams in sheep shows. Key competitions include dairy and beef cattle shows, Boer goat evaluations, sheep and swine judging, and pulling events for oxen or working steers, with youth-focused contests through 4-H and FFA emphasizing livestock evaluation skills, such as dairy judging and career development events held September 12-13. These integrate educational elements like the Farm-A-Rama pavilion's hands-on farming demonstrations and daily working sheepdog trials, which illustrate practical herding techniques and animal behavior. Equestrian shows in the 5,900-seat Coliseum further highlight horse breeds and performance, while pre-fair entries ensure rigorous standards, with winners receiving ribbons, cash, and recognition for superior genetics and conditioning.

Food and Culinary Experiences

The Eastern States Exposition, commonly known as The Big E, features an extensive selection of food vendors offering classic fair staples alongside inventive dishes that highlight deep-frying techniques, regional ingredients, and multi-state culinary influences from its six represented states. Over 75 vendors operate across the grounds, providing options ranging from corn dogs and to loaded and pickle-infused items like pickle or doughnuts, with preparations often beginning months in advance to meet demand during the 17-day event. Signature offerings include the Big E Cream Puff, a light filled with and introduced in 2002 as the fair's emblematic sweet to rival other expositions' icons, and the Craz-E Burger, a towering concoction of beef patties, cheese, and toppings designed for hearty appetites. These items exemplify the fair's emphasis on indulgent, shareable experiences, often customized with toppings like or to enhance variety. Deep-fried innovations, such as deviled eggs or sandwiches, further define the culinary landscape, drawing on fair traditions while incorporating annual updates like vegan or spicy variants to accommodate diverse preferences. Culinary highlights extend to competitive elements, including the Big Eats Awards, sponsored by Cutco Cutlery, where new vendor dishes vie for recognition based on fairgoer votes in categories such as Best Sweet Treat and Best Savory Snack; eligibility covers all novel items, with 10 finalists selected annually from submissions. In 2025, Soulfully Vegan's claimed Best Sweet Treat, while Deep Fried Taco's won Best Savory Snack, underscoring guest-driven acclaim for bold flavors. Complementary events like the Big E Cheese Competition award medals to regional producers, with Pineland Farms securing 17 in 2025 across styles including cheddar and , tying food experiences to agricultural roots.

Commercial Vendors and Marketplace

The commercial vendors at the Eastern States Exposition occupy dedicated indoor and outdoor spaces, offering attendees a broad selection of consumer products including home innovations, gadgets, and artisanal items. Venues such as the Better Living Center host exhibitors displaying items like outdoor kitchens, grills, children's books, and products, emphasizing practical household and lifestyle enhancements. The Young Building's International Plaza features vendors from abroad selling global goods such as cloths and sweaters, alongside domestic commercial booths with similar novelty and utility-focused merchandise. Outdoor exhibitors along Hampden Avenue and in areas like Craft Common provide additional marketplace options, including antiques, puzzles, blankets, and handmade crafts from regional makers. These spaces collectively form a bustling retail environment, with vendors required to staff booths daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the 17-day fair. In total, the exposition attracts over 600 vendors each year, many focused on commercial sales that leverage the event's attendance exceeding 1.5 million to drive product demonstrations and direct purchases. This marketplace aspect underscores the fair's role in promoting industrial and commercial developments, a dating to its origins in showcasing innovative exhibits.

Entertainment, Concerts, and Rides

The Eastern States Exposition provides extensive through free and ticketed attractions, including stage performances, variety acts, street performers, and headline concerts at the Big E Arena. These offerings complement the fair's agricultural focus, drawing over 1.5 million attendees annually to experience live music and shows amid the event's 17-day run in . The midway amusement area features dozens of , games, and thrill attractions managed under a credit-based ticketing system, where ride costs range from 9 to 18 credits depending on intensity and restrictions. Operating hours are 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. through and 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, weather permitting. Ticket books offer value, such as 20 credits for $10 or larger bundles for families, with minimums enforcing — for instance, the 1001 Nachts ride requires riders to be at least 48 inches tall and costs 12 credits, while the Century Wheel allows those under 54 inches only with an adult and charges 15 credits. Headline concerts occur primarily at the Big E Arena on weekends, starting at 7:30 p.m., featuring established artists across genres; admission to these is included with fair entry, though seating may require early arrival. In 2025, the lineup included Tonic on September 12, TLC with on September 19, on September 20, and Foreigner later in the fair. Additional free live music and variety entertainment, such as performances by acts like Jonathan Burns (daily sets at noon or 5:00 p.m. from September 12–17) and The StepCrew, occur throughout the grounds to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Economic Impact

Attendance Statistics

The Eastern States Exposition, known as The Big E, has consistently drawn large crowds since its in 1927, with annual attendance exceeding 1 million visitors in recent decades during its 17-day September run in . Official figures indicate steady growth, peaking in the post-pandemic era before a slight decline in 2025. In 2024, the event achieved its all-time record net of 1,633,935 visitors, surpassing previous highs and ranking it as the fourth-largest fair in the United States by that year. This figure included seven daily records and a single-day peak of 178,608 on September 21. The following year, 2025 totaled 1,538,463, a decrease of 95,472 from 2024, amid operational adjustments to address overcrowding, including withholding daily figures publicly for safety reasons. Despite the dip, this remained 3.2% above the five-year pre-2024 average and drew visitors from all 50 states and over 30 countries. Historical trends show variability influenced by weather, economic factors, and external events, with earlier records including 1.4 million in and approximately 1.3 million in . Post-2020 recovery accelerated growth, with 1.6 million in followed by 1.4 million in 2023.
YearAttendance
20151,300,000+
20161,400,000
20221,600,000
20231,400,000+
20241,633,935
20251,538,463

Regional Economic Contributions

The Eastern States Exposition contributes significantly to the regional economy of and broader through direct visitor spending, job creation, and multiplier effects from its year-round events, with The Big E fair serving as the primary driver. A 2024 economic impact study by Regional Economic Models, Inc. (REMI) estimated the total regional output at $1.167 billion across and parts of New York, encompassing direct expenditures on tickets, concessions, and vendor purchases alongside indirect and induced effects in supply chains and employee compensation. In Hampden County, where the fairgrounds are located in West Springfield, the gross regional product impact reached $235 million, bolstering sectors such as , retail, and through increased demand for lodging, meals, and local produce. The exposition sustains 8,085 jobs regionally, with approximately 60.8% held by women, spanning event staffing, , transportation, and supporting industries like farming and . The Big E alone attracts over 1.6 million attendees during its 17-day run—reaching a record 1.633 million in —generating 87% of the organization's revenue and spurring ancillary spending estimated at hundreds of millions in off-site economic activity, including occupancy rates that often exceed 90% in nearby Springfield and Agawam. This influx benefits small businesses, with local vendors reporting substantial seasonal revenue gains from fair-related tourism. As a nonprofit entity, the Exposition further aids the region by remitting 1% of its gross annually to West Springfield, funding community grants for , , and public services that enhance long-term economic resilience. These contributions, derived from empirical modeling of visitor data and expenditure surveys, underscore the event's role in diversifying the local economy beyond traditional manufacturing in the post-industrial .

Broader Socioeconomic Effects

The Eastern States Exposition supports socioeconomic equity by directing 60.8% of its created jobs to individuals without college degrees and 5,646 positions to those in the bottom 20% of income earners, thereby providing employment opportunities to lower-skilled and lower-income workers across and New York. Additionally, it bolsters 1,310 jobs for workers and contributes to employment growth among all racial groups, helping to address disparities in regional labor markets. Through its emphasis on youth development, the Exposition promotes via programs like and FFA, where participants showcase , crops, and projects in competitions that build practical skills and encourage future involvement in farming and related industries. These initiatives, rooted in the event's founding mission to foster productive young people, expose over 6.5 million youth nationwide to hands-on learning, with local demonstrations at the fair reinforcing community ties to in an era of . The event preserves cultural heritage and regional identity by celebrating New England farming traditions, as seen in exhibits like the Fiber Festival and Storrowton Village Museum, which draw over 3 million annual visitors and educate on systems and historical practices. This sustains cohesion and counters rural depopulation by attracting or retaining 3,149 residents regionally, including 1,916 in Hampden County, through sustained economic and social opportunities. Year-round activities generate $19 million in for Hampden County, funding public infrastructure, schools, and services that enhance long-term and regional stability. By prioritizing , , and industry in its not-for-profit operations, the Exposition fosters intergenerational and bolsters the resilience of local economies against broader declines in traditional sectors.

Other Events and Programs

Year-Round Hosting Activities

The Eastern States Exposition functions as a multifaceted venue hosting more than 120 events annually beyond its primary September fair, including trade shows, consumer expos, agricultural competitions, and educational programs. These activities utilize facilities such as the 123,000-square-foot Better Living Center and additional 355,000 square feet of rental space, supporting diverse gatherings that promote regional industries and interests. Agricultural and livestock-related events form a core component, featuring horse shows like the TSASA Octoberfest Horse Show held from October 29 to November 2, and various dog shows such as the Riverhead Dog Show on October 26 and the Queensboro Dog Show on October 24–25. Other competitions include exhibits and shows, continuing the Exposition's historical emphasis on farming traditions established since its founding in 1916. Trade and consumer shows encompass specialized expos like the EASTEC machine tool show, Western Massachusetts Home Show, boat shows, sportsman's shows, antiques and collectibles fairs, and food-focused events, attracting exhibitors and attendees for demonstrations, sales, and networking. Cultural and educational initiatives at Storrowton Village Museum provide year-round access to historical exhibits, programs, and seasonal tours such as Storrowton Ghost Tours on October 30, preserving 19th-century architecture and artifacts. Additional off-season programming includes the Fiber Festival of on November 1–2, featuring workshops, shopping, and demonstrations in fiber arts, alongside other niche events like gem, mineral, and fossil shows. This year-round sustains economic activity at the 375-acre site in , by accommodating equine events, hobbyist conventions, and community-oriented gatherings throughout the year.

Educational and Cultural Initiatives

The Eastern States Exposition promotes agricultural education through annual youth competitions and partnerships with organizations like and the Future Farmers of America (FFA). The Eastern Regional FFA Contest, held each year during the fair, gathers high school students from across multiple states for events in areas such as , dairy evaluation, and judging, organized by the exposition's FFA Planning Committee. Similarly, members participate in shows, project demonstrations, and educational workshops, with the fair dedicating its first Saturday to celebrating these groups and providing limited spots for state delegations to engage in hands-on learning. The exposition's foundation supports youth leadership and education via scholarships awarded to New England residents who have actively participated in its programs, emphasizing agriculture, industry, and community development. These initiatives align with the organization's core mission to deliver educational experiences for both urban and rural youth through exhibitions and events that highlight practical skills in farming, animal husbandry, and regional industry. Culturally, the Eastern States Exposition preserves New England heritage via Storrowton Village Museum programs, including year-round homeschool activities starting in August with monthly themes on early American life, nature, and farm practices for ages 6-12, and summer camps costing $65 to $225 that incorporate STEM, historical crafts, and 19th-century simulations. The fair also features traditional events like oxen pulling contests and milking demonstrations, drawing from six states to showcase shared cultural roots in and rural traditions. Through these efforts, the exposition fosters intergenerational knowledge of regional history and self-sufficiency, distinct from urban-centric narratives in broader educational institutions.

Controversies and Criticisms

Overcrowding and Operational Challenges

The Eastern States Exposition, commonly known as The Big E, experienced significant overcrowding during its 2024 edition, which set a record attendance of over 1.6 million visitors across 17 days. This surge resulted in widespread reports of gridlocked pedestrian crowds, with multiple viral videos capturing near-immobile throngs that raised safety apprehensions among attendees, including fears of trampling or evacuation difficulties in emergencies. Fair organizers responded by augmenting security personnel and coordinating with local to manage the influx, though some visitors described conditions as "deadlocked" and untenable on peak weekend days. Operational strains extended to traffic and parking logistics, exacerbated by the event's location in , near Interstate 91. Heavy congestion on routes like Route 5 has been a recurring issue, with officials advising advance planning and noting delays of up to hours during high-attendance periods. Parking, limited to on-site lots charging fees, often filled rapidly on weekends, prompting warnings of ticketing or towing for illegal street parking in adjacent areas. Daily attendance peaks, historically around 177,000 in prior years but higher in 2024, intensified these bottlenecks, contributing to visitor dissatisfaction voiced in reviews citing unmanageable crowds that diminished enjoyment. In response to 2024's challenges, the fair implemented adjustments including withholding daily figures from media and police to discourage over-concentration on weekends, alongside layout modifications and discounted weekday pricing to distribute crowds more evenly. These measures correlated with lighter weekend and a total of 1,538,463 visitors—a nearly drop from the prior record—while the exposition's president attributed prior overcrowding complaints to exaggerated narratives rather than substantive capacity failures. Despite improvements, remains a persistent operational hurdle, with local authorities continuing to deploy enhanced and shuttle options to mitigate ingress and egress delays.

Animal Welfare and Safety Incidents

In September 2019, an named Beulah, aged 54 and part of the Commerford Zoo exhibit, died at the Eastern States Exposition grounds from septicemia caused by , a uterine , according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report. Initial statements from the exposition and exhibit owners attributed the death to a heart attack, but the official veterinary diagnosis confirmed the bacterial as the cause. The incident drew scrutiny from advocates, contributing to broader discussions on exotic animal use at fairs, though exposition president Eugene Cassidy affirmed no plans to alter live animal exhibits, emphasizing their traditional role. Beulah's death later influenced legislation banning wild animal performances in circuses. Earlier, in September 2018, viral imagery captured welfare concerns during animal rides: a photo showed an appearing distressed while carrying fairgoers, prompting PETA to demand an end to such performances, citing exhaustion and chaining. A separate video depicted a collapsing but being compelled to rise for continued use, which activists highlighted as evidence of overwork, though no formal regulatory violations were cited in immediate reports. These events involved Commerford & Family Attractions, whose operators faced over 50 prior citations under the Animal Welfare Act for incidents including escapes and injuries across various venues. On September 20, 2024, a erupted in C at the exposition grounds after the fair's daily operations, leading to the evacuation of 161 stabled there. Firefighters reported all animals accounted for, with some sustaining minor injuries such as scrapes but no serious trauma like fractures; the blaze, originating from an undetermined electrical source, was contained without fatalities. The exposition described the event as minor, though eyewitness accounts noted chaotic evacuations amid smoke and alarm activations. Recurring protests by groups like Animal Rights Advocates have targeted livestock and exotic animal displays at the event, alleging systemic welfare lapses such as inadequate rest and transport stress, particularly for Commerford's animals. These demonstrations, held annually including in 2022 and planned for 2025, urge phase-outs but have not resulted in documented regulatory shutdowns of specific exhibits beyond the elephant rides post-2019. No large-scale livestock deaths or injuries from competitions have been reported in official records for recent years, though the exposition's premium book outlines protocols for injury compensation in judging events.

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