The Big E

Every season brings annual things that you can't do during the rest of the year. Winter you can ski or snowboard, summer you can swim in the ocean or in a pool. Fall is no different. One thing I look forward to in the fall is The Big E (aka: The Eastern States Exposition). This is a fair that is held in Western Ma for about 2-2.5 weeks in September and October. There are a lot of local businesses selling crafts and other homemade items. And the food! Let's just say if you're on a diet, it would be best to leave that at home if you decide to go.

One of my favorite areas is the Avenue of the States, a "street" with full scale models of the 6 original New England statehouses. Once you step into the building you are then on that state's soil (which is kinda cool thought that within a short walk you could "travel" to 6 states!). Throughout each building there are vendors set up representing the state: Vermont has a Ben & Jerry's stand, Rhode Island a few seafood restaurants, etc. It's not all food though; the buildings include information booths stock with pamphlets and flyers highlighting the many parks, museums, and seasonal activities in each state. 

The New Hampshire and Connecticut State buildings 

Not far from these buildings is Storrowton Village. This area of the Big E looks like a little town square. It has buildings that were built between 1760-1834 from Massachusetts and New Hampshire that were relocated to the Big E grounds. You can tour each one and learn a little about their history. There are also gift shops in and around the village that sell items inspired by that long ago time.

The Big E is not just about the history of New England though; it is a fair after all! Throughout the entire grounds there are food stands with deep-fried everything! There are also local restaurants serving meals and local bars and breweries selling adult beverages. Many local businesses and crafters have booths set up with both fun and practical items for your home available for purchase. And in the back quarter of the grounds is a midway featuring carnival-style rides and games.

Photo Credit: Lisa Careau

Photo Credit: Lisa Careau

And HOW could I forget, the animals?! There are two buildings that highlight 4-H livestock competitions, and you can view these contests as well as tour the exhibits displaying cows, horses, sheep, pigs, chicks, rabbits, llamas and alpacas for an up close and personal farm animal experience. It really is fun!

Overall it's a great time! I look forward to it every year. If you're ever in the area, you should totally check it out!! :)

*All photographs are my own, except the two credited to Lisa Careau