The Big E is no ordinary fair-it's the 10th largest in North America. A longtime New England fall tradition (I'm not sure for how long, but my New England native-born parents fondly recall its bounty of maple candy from their own youths), every state in New England plays an integral role in putting together this festival. The occasion is the ever-spectacular arrival of autumn in New England, and, though the venue is in West Springfield, Mass., all the other states-Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut and even little Rhode Island-each add their unique flavors to the celebration. At the Big E, you can enjoy free live entertainment from recording artists such as Jessica Simpson (on Oct. 3) to live demonstrations of such indispensable products as "It's Not Just A Pressure-Cooker!" Agriculture is often an important part of fairs, and the Big E is no exception; however, along with your blue-ribbon-winning pigs and giant pumpkins, you can encounter a wide array of flora and fauna from around the world, not to mention meet the Budweiser Clydesdales. My Big E companion convinced me to pay a dollar to see what was allegedly the world's largest pig, which I will attest would certainly make a whole lot of bacon.
If you're at the Big E in the evening, as I was when I attended last year, you will undoubtedly encounter the Mardi Gras parade, a festive, noisy procession that channels carnivals from around the world. Meanwhile, you will inevitably acquire several strings of beads-no removal of clothing necessary-and you might even win a prize. Thrill shows and the Big E Super Circus are also available for those interested, along with a midway of carnival-style games and amusement rides. Of course, if visiting the latter, definitely do so prior to eating. You'll want to bring your appetite to the Big E.
Along with several avenues and buildings filled with opportunities to purchase everything from self-cleaning in-ground swimming pools to mittens is a veritable smorgasbord of fair food. You'll find cotton candy, caramel apples, corn dogs, fried dough and kettle corn aplenty, but also more atypical fair food such as beignets, clam chowder, fried mushrooms (they're tasty!) and empanadas. Hungry yet? Of what my partner in gluttony and I consumed, I would advise you not to pass the sweet potato fries or the chocolate-dipped frozen bananas with sprinkles. (Allegedly, the Big E Cream Puffs are really something, too!)
Last year when I attended the Big E, I missed out on the most unique part of this fair-the Avenue of States. The Avenue is beautiful and impressive, containing life-size replicas of each New England state's original capitol. In each house, you can learn about what people, products, attractions and, of course, food and drink, make each state unique. You should definitely be sure not to miss any of the state houses; just like the states of New England, each state's flavor is perceptible just by stepping into each one. For a few more dollars, you can sample each state's flavors-in fact, Big E-goer, I'd advise you to do lunch at the state houses. If you're really craving those cheese curds and candy apples, go ahead and snack, but stick around the state houses for dinner. Among what's offered are Maine lobster rolls, Rhode Island quahog chili, crisp New Hampshire apple cider and incredible Vermont cheddar cheese. Maple-flavored everything abounds as well, from cotton candy to ice cream.
Though unfortunately Hurricane Ivan cut my stay a little short this year, the few hours we spent there were sufficient to experience at least a taste of the fair's cornucopia of treats for all the senses. The Big E offers a true slice of New England culture at its best, and a generous one at that. Bring your family, your dorm floor, your friends. And try that good ole Maine blueberry pie!