The Big E held in West Springfield, MA at the Eastern States Exposition from September 18 – October 4, 2009, boasts its success on being the largest fair in the northeast. With “New England history, and agriculture, animals, rides, shopping, crafts, daily parade, a Mardi Gras parade, and foods from around the world”, it is truly the best 17 days to be had http://www.thebige.com/fair/index.html.
Let’s talk about the food first. Think you have what it takes to bring home a blue ribbon? Then sign up for the Hidden Valley Dressings “Fresh Taste for the Family” Recipe contest. Not sure if you want to cook? There is nothing wrong with watching, and maybe you will get a taste of some of the creations from the entries http://www.thebige.com/foodcontest/index.html.
If contests don’t interest you, be sure to try a Big E cream puff, éclair, or chocolate chip cookie (laced with Ghirardelli chocolate chips), too full, then a must have to take home by the dozen. Between the 100s of food trucks, Avenue of States, and exhibit halls there are food choices galore for the picky and adventurous alike; Tostitos, Pretzel sticks with seafood dips, Chowda, Beef Jerky, Fudge, Lobster Rolls, Pancakes (with real New England Syrup), too many dairy items to mention (fried and as is), steam-umm, sweet potato fries, fried dough, shrimp chili, corn dogs, Deluca’s Italian faire, German fries (must have lots of ketchup with these), frozen bananas – to name a few.
Food not your venue – check out the drinks at the Big MartinE Bar in the Italian Pavilion featuring a variety of E-Tinis including the Fair's signature Big E-Tini made, with locally owned and distributed V-One Vodka, to taste like The Big E Cream Puff.
All and all – there is enough variety to appease all palettes and push fair goers to ensure they wear comfortable elastic pants for the every stretching belly.
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