Yes You Can Visit the Big E Solo

 

For years I’ve though about going to the Big E, the largest fair in the East held in each September in West Springfield Mass.  On 2014 Connecticut day I woke up and decided it was time to head there.

 

My approach was a wayfaring one.  On this day of leisure, I wanted to let things happen naturally.  However I did have a few priorities -to be in some of my photos, exhibits and events that focused on animals, agriculture, states, the parade, musical performances and dinner in between.

 

I was stunned on how easy it was to strike a balance of “me time” and engage with others. I found that the simple action of asking a question every so often was all it took to feel included and to hear the experiences of others. I did that with staff, vendors, exhibitors, fellow attendees, parade participants and occasionally with the farm and domestic animals that were there. 

 

My visit began with some of the farm animals as a warmup.  I visited the cows, sheep and farmers.  I attended the cute little pig races near gate 9A and took a photo with Marcus who ran them.   I was amazed by the 750 pumpkin grown by 7 year old Emma in Pittsfield also by the photos of people creating little passenger boats with the shells of large pumpkins!   

 

I loved viewing all the food offerings and bravely went to the bakery with the famous cream puffs and eclairs and fought off the temptation to have one.  I tried to attend the circus, but supply of seats didn’t meet demand.

 

My favorite place was the staging area of the parade.  Got to speak with a diverse group including the Hartford Roller Derby team, South Winds Kennel Club,  the EPA and the folks in retro cars and trucks.  I had the best photo opportunity for Clydesdale horses compared to those watching from the parade route. 

 

For food, I highly recommend the lobster rolls in the back of the Maine state pavilion.  Tender, packed with lobster meat, no mayo and a melt in your mouth roll. ($10)  The bowl of clam chowder in the back of the Massachusetts building was wonderful ($5).  Next visit I will try the chowder in the Rhode Island building!  The other thing that tempted me to eat was apple pie in the Maine state building apple pie topped with a generous slice of cheddar cheese.

Navigating the fair site in the dark to find your parking gate was a little challenging, but a quick stop to the information booth helped me avoid a detour.   I made sure I had a clear ideas of where I parked earlier.   Parking lots are huge and I was parked in an unpaved area - nice to have the golf cart service take me back to my car.  I felt very safe from start to finish. 

I can’t wait for next year so that I can cover off some of the things I didn’t get to.  For your first time, an overnight stay nearyby Westspring field would be nice if it fits in your budget. 

Adult entrance to the Big E was $15, Parking $10, Program $3.  Sept 12-28,2014.  

 

M
Submitted by Milford, CT

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