The Eastern States Exposition or the Big “E’ as it’s affectionately known, opened last weekend for business and is on now each day until October 1.

The largest fair in New England and the Northeast it seems to grow bigger each year.

The North American Midway is the fairs own amusement park with all the thrills and spills you’d expect for adults and kids of all ages.

This year heralds the return of the Grande Mardi Gras Parade to The Big E with seven custom-made floats specially designed and built by the Kern Companies of New Orleans. Look for two spectacular parades on weekdays and a combined Mardi Gras and Grande Parade on weekends.

Of course the heart of the fair is the Avenue of States. Here you can walk through all six New England states in about an hour. Take a stroll along the Avenue of States and see impressive replicas of each New England state’s original statehouse sitting on land actually owned by that state. Take a step inside and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and tastes and of quintessential New England. With activities from agriculture exhibits to horse shows, and miles of exhibit halls plenty put on your comfy walking shoes.

Entertainment has always figured big in the fairs history and this year is no different. High performing stars are on the line-up, along with the Big “E” super circus, and special appearances on the ground by surprise performers.

This is one large show, but it only lasts for 17 days.

The Big “E’ grounds are located in Springfield, western Massachusetts. From points east take the Massachusetts Turnpike West to Exit 6 (Springfield). Go left at the light, following I-291 South to I-91 South (right lane) to Exit 3 and follow signs. OR, take the Massachusetts Turnpike West to Exit 4, to Rte. 5 South to Rte. 147 West. Continue approximately 3/4 mi. to ESE’s Gate 9 parking lot.

From points west take the Massachusetts Turnpike East to Exit 4, to Rte. 5 South, to Rte. 147 West. Continue approximately 3/4 mi. to ESE’s Gate 9 parking lot.

Admission to the fair is adults $12 weekdays, $15 at weekends. Children prices are $8 and $10 at weekends.

For more information on times and exhibits check out the official web site at www.thebige.com/index.htm

For more destinations and attractions in the area check out my Massachusetts destinations page by clicking here.

Look for more fall attraction suggestions in the New England area in a few days.

Cliff Calderwood
Executive Director
New England Vacations Online Guide

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