Happy August, friends! Goodness, this year is flying by, and this month is a transition from summer to fall.

And to this New England girl, that could only mean one thing…The Big E!

Its official name is Eastern States Agricultural and Industrial Exposition, but anyone who has lived in New England or is one of the one million visitors a year who walk through the gates, it is the Big E. Billed as “New England’s Great State Fair”, it is the largest agricultural event on the eastern seaboard and the fifth-largest fair in the nation. The Big E is inclusive of all six New England states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

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. 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.

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 participating states and was deemed “a triumph in a new type of education.” 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.

In 1923, the Massachusetts Department of Health built a model schoolhouse on the fairgrounds, offering free medical and dental examinations. 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. On a personal note, I spent long days chaperoning my son’s middle and high school band when they performed on Connecticut Day at the fair.

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.

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. Many foods representing New England cuisine can be found at The Big E, along with traditional fair foods like fried dough, corn dogs, funnel cakes, and fried everything. For example, the Maine House in past years has offered

lobster, blueberries, and baked potatoes, while the Vermont House has Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, maple syrup, and Cabot cheese. Vendors also sell locally made products and handicrafts. The Maine baked potatoes have become an icon, with buyers regularly joining long lines during the fair’s busier periods. The Connecticut building features watches from Timex, which was founded there, as well as Lego, which has its US headquarters there. The Rhode Island building features Del’s Lemonade and Blount Seafood Clamcakes and Chowder.

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. Sadly, I haven’t been back to the fair to sample this delicacy.

Over time, the Big E expanded its entertainment offerings to include thrilling rides, live music, stunt shows, and even talent competitions. The Ferris wheel, a staple at most fairs, provides stunning views of the fairgrounds, while roller coasters and bumper cars add excitement for thrill-seekers. Musical performances featuring both local and national acts bring an additional layer of entertainment to the festivities.

Like many modern state and regional fairs that have embraced new forms of entertainment, The Big E’s agricultural roots remain strong. Livestock competitions, horse shows, and horticulture displays continue to be a major draw. These exhibitions provide educational opportunities for younger generations and honor the fair’s agricultural heritage.

For many, the evoke a deep sense of nostalgia, reminding them of the last golden days of summer filled with excitement and wonder. The combination of fair food, bright lights, and classic rides brings back fond memories, making a trip to the Big E an annual tradition for families across the New England region and the country.

The Big E remains one of America’s Top 10 state fairs blending history, culture, and entertainment into a uniquely American experience. Whether it’s the mouth-watering food, thrilling rides, or deep-rooted traditions, the magic of the Big E continues to captivate millions each year. As this yearly event evolves to embrace modern trends while preserving its historic charm, the Big E remains a testament to the enduring spirit of community and celebration in the United States.

********Giveaway*********

For a chance to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card, share a childhood memory about experiencing a state or county fair.