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The Big E Offers More Than a "Fair" Time This beloved September "New England states" fair features something entertaining and educational for everyone!  The colorful Big E features a tempting -- and often delicious -- attraction from every perspective (photo by Eric H.) Article and photo by Eric H. Commonly known as The Big E, this classic, beloved entertaining and educational New England fair held in West Springfield, MA, offers a supersized, colorful version of the local fair. With abundant amusement rides, animal exhibitions, agricultural displays, comfort food vendors, musical entertainment, horse shows, cooking contests, "Shamwow"-caliber carnival barkers trying to sell their goods, circuses and parades, The Big E requires a full day to explore the lively, bustling premises. For us, it's often tempting to come back a second day. Perhaps the most impressive traditional highlight is the Avenue of States, with its remarkable replicas of the six New England original statehouses: Connectiut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. To further enhance the experience, what's inside the buildings is even more satisfying: local products common to each state, as well as educational, travel and tourism information. That could mean wild Maine blueberry pie, Vermont Cheddar cheese, handmade crafts from Vermont, hiking in New Hampshire information, or a cup of clam chowder from Massachusetts. The aromas, displays and exhibitions are seemingly endless in these beautiful buildings. We've enjoyed so many Big E attractions through the years: delicious barbecued chicken, carousel rides, eating too many mini-donuts, feeding the giraffes, hilarious and entertaining sea lion shows, and concerts by Faith Hill, Peaches and Herb and Sawyer Brown, Mardi Gras parades. Without a doubt, one of the great prides and joys of The Big E is the famous Big E cream puff -- a creamy custard topped with rich, decadent chocolate! You might just be tempted to eat more than one -- it's that delicious! We strongly recommend checking out The Big E schedule for this September as you're sure to find something of interest -- and perhaps the start of your own grand, memory-filled tradition of visiting this incredibly fun fair. Editor's note: The 2011 Big E will be held from Sept. 16-Oct 2. Country stars Blake Shelton, Reba McEntire, and Darius Rucker are scheduled to perform this year at the Big E, as well as 1970s rock icons Cheap Trick. The Big E Eastern States Exposition 1305 Memorial Avenue (Rte. 147) West Springfield, MA 01089 Phone: (413) 737-2443 Fax: (413) 787-0127 Info Line: (413) 205-5115 Related articles and resources: Massachusetts travel information Book a hotel in Springfield, MA, at discount rates
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