Eastern States Exposition (The Big E)
New England's Great State Fair, celebrating agriculture, entertainment, and culture across six states with iconic food and attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better experience
Eastern States Exposition (The Big E)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
New England's Great State Fair, celebrating agriculture, entertainment, and culture across six states with iconic food and attractions.
"It's a wonderful, large-scale event with top-notch entertainment and so much to see & do!"
🎯 Arrive Early!
Beat traffic and parking woes by arriving as early as possible. :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Expect to hit 16,000 steps in just a few hours. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Avenue of the States
Each New England State Building
Explore unique exhibits and culture from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Culinary Delights
Throughout the fairgrounds
Indulge in a vast array of fair foods, from classic favorites to new, innovative menu items each year.
Circus Spectacular
Big Top Tent
Enjoy thrilling performances and acts at this free circus show included with admission.
Mardi Gras Parade
Fairgrounds
Catch a vibrant, daily parade with a festive atmosphere and a chance to grab colorful beads.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Budgeting for Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early!
Beat traffic and parking woes by arriving as early as possible. :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Expect to hit 16,000 steps in just a few hours. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget for Food & Games
Food and games can be pricey. Plan your spending, as rides require a reloadable card. :moneybag:
📱 Download the App
Check schedules, maps, and event info easily on the official Big E app. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early!
Beat traffic and parking woes by arriving as early as possible. :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Expect to hit 16,000 steps in just a few hours. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget for Food & Games
Food and games can be pricey. Plan your spending, as rides require a reloadable card. :moneybag:
📱 Download the App
Check schedules, maps, and event info easily on the official Big E app. :iphone:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle or be prepared to purchase drinks frequently. :droplet:
🎭 Don't Miss Free Entertainment
Enjoy free concerts, the circus, and parades included with your admission ticket. :performing_arts:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Big E is a massive, beloved New England tradition offering a wide array of food, entertainment, and exhibits. Visitors praise the free concerts, circus, and the unique Avenue of the States. However, some find the food and game prices to be excessively high, and traffic/parking can be challenging.
"excellent. absolutely excellent. most of the food is incredible, fun to browse the shops and the entertainment is the best!! definitely do NOT miss the circus, it was so much fun and it’s free. the acts were just so good. been here twice and once had a dog show and the other pig racing…😂 both fun in their own ways. people are nice and was a lot of security. does get very crowded, although it’s said to be worse on weekends while for us, it was the same as when we went on a weekday last year. i recommend going on the weeks in the middle, so your not going opening weekend or last weekend where everyone who wanted to go but kept pushing it back all go because “it’s the last weekend! we gotta go!” but yeah, do not miss this!!"
kenzie smith
"Great time for all! Saw some awesome Concerts for free included in the ticket price. Like Chubby Checker, Seals & Crofts 2, Hank Azaria and the EZ Street Band, Sister Hazel, The Band Perry, Finger Eleven. Some of the best fresh food around. A must go to is the "Avenue Of The States" where each State building represents one of the New England States. Circus Spectacular at the Big Top. Shopping at "The Better Living Building" for items across the U.S. and around the world. And a daily Mardi gras type parade at 6:00 p.m. that you can catch some colorful Beads!"
Robert Snowden
"New England's largest fair! There's something for the whole family, with the amusement park, games and showcase buildings. There's so much to see & do! So many food choices too - you'll need the whole day! Wear good walking shoes, we did over 16,000 steps in 6 hrs!"
B. Coffey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Big E is located in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Major highways like I-91 provide access. Parking is available on-site, but traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends. Consider arriving early or exploring off-site parking with shuttle options. +1
There are several parking lots available, including main gate parking. Some local residents offer parking on their property, but it can be confusing. Arriving early is the best strategy to secure convenient parking.
Limited public transportation options may be available depending on your starting location. It's best to check local transit schedules for routes serving West Springfield during the fair dates.
The most effective way to avoid traffic is to arrive very early in the morning, especially on weekdays. Planning your route in advance and checking real-time traffic updates can also help.
The Eastern States Exposition is located at 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, and it's recommended to check the official Big E website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing Eastern States Exposition tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and potentially money.
Look out for potential discounts on specific days or through partnerships. Some reviewers mention that school trips may not always receive special pricing for rides.
The Big E typically opens daily around 8 AM and closes in the late evening, with specific hours for buildings and attractions varying. Check the official schedule for exact times.
Yes, rides and games typically require payment via a reloadable card or tokens, which are purchased separately from admission.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Avenue of the States, the Circus Spectacular, the daily Mardi Gras Parade, and the diverse food offerings. Exploring the various showcase buildings is also highly recommended.
The Big E is famous for its extensive food selection, featuring everything from classic fair treats to unique regional specialties. New menu items are introduced annually.
Yes, there's an amusement park with rides, various games, and family-friendly entertainment like the circus and parades.
The Avenue of the States features buildings representing each of the six New England states, offering a glimpse into their unique cultures, products, and heritage.
Absolutely! The Big E hosts a variety of free concerts, shows, and performances throughout its run, often featuring well-known artists.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the Avenue of the States, the colorful parades, the bustling food stalls, and the iconic fairground rides. The model 19th-century village also offers charming photo opportunities.
Yes, The Big E is a major agricultural event, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to photograph livestock and other farm animals in their exhibition areas.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting. Evenings offer a different charm with the fairgrounds lit up.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of private vendor displays and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing a variety of scenes, from wide shots of the grounds to close-ups of food and exhibits. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🍔 Foodies
Don't miss iconic treats like the Big E Cream Puff. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Journey of The Big E
Reviewers often highlight the sheer variety and quality of food available, making it a central part of the fair experience. Be prepared for long lines at popular vendors, especially during peak hours. Beyond the sweet treats, The Big E also showcases regional agricultural products, offering a chance to sample local cheeses, honeys, and other farm-fresh goods.
Many vendors offer samples, allowing you to taste before you commit to a full purchase. Planning your food strategy, perhaps by sharing items or prioritizing must-try dishes, can help you experience more of what the fair has to offer without overspending. Navigating the Crowds and Logistics
Parking can be a significant consideration. While official lots are available, some visitors opt for private parking on nearby properties.
The Unique Multi-State Showcase
The 'Avenue of the States' is the heart of this showcase, with each state maintaining its own building. This creates a rich tapestry of regional identity and celebration, making The Big E a true New England experience. This multi-state representation extends to the vendors and exhibits present. You'll find businesses and artisans from across the region, offering a diverse range of goods and services.
It's an excellent opportunity to discover local crafts, unique products, and regional specialties that might not be available elsewhere. The fair truly embodies the spirit of New England, bringing together its diverse communities for a shared celebration. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit