the big e: history, food, rides & tips for 2025

The Big E Tickets, Hours, Parking Information & New Foods in 2025

Your guide to the big e in 2025

The Big E is the largest fair in New England, and because of that it's also the most highly anticipated. While many smaller fairs in Connecticut and Massachusetts feature classic fair foods, carnival rides, a variety of games, and some livestock, the Big E takes it to another level. Each year brings new, unique foods to try, up and coming artists performing live, and much, much more. To learn about what to expect at the Big E in 2025, including ticket prices, parking information, new foods of the year, etc., you've come to the right place because I've put together a guide for you.

What Is The Big E?

The Big E, otherwise known as the Eastern States Exposition, is the largest fair in New England. This is a unique event because it has both agricultural and industrial influences and involves a collaborative effort from all six New England states. It's 17 days long, making in one of the longest fairs in the area, and even has a state house for each New England state with prime vendors from that area.

THE HISTORY OF THE BIG E

The Big E began in October 1916 in West Springfield, Massachusetts, as the Eastern States Agricultural and Industrial Exposition, created by Joshua L. Brooks to promote farming and teach young people agricultural skills. Originally, ten states—including all six in New England along with New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania—participated in displays, contests, and youth programs that highlighted produce, livestock, and homemade goods. By the 1920s, the event grew into September dates and introduced “Baby Beef Clubs” to encourage young farmers, along with unusual attractions like automobile polo, band competitions, and cultural exhibits. In 1966, the Exposition rebranded as “The Big E,” emphasizing entertainment, education, and excitement, and it has continued to evolve ever since. Aside from interruptions during World War I, World War II, and the COVID-19 pandemic, this 17-day fair has remained a cornerstone of New England life for more than a century.

where is the big e located?

The Big E is located at 875 Memorial Ave in West Springfield, Massachusetts. There are multiple entrances to the Big E, including:

Gate 1 (1649 Memorial Avenue): This entrance is for vendor parking and bus groups. 

Gate 9 (875 Memorial Avenue): This is where you can find public parking. It fills up quickly, so if you don't plan on going to the Big E early, I would advise finding parking elsewhere nearby. 

Gate 10 (Enter the grounds at Gate 1 or 9, and proceed to Gate 1):  This is where you can find agriculture exhibitor parking. 

Executive Office (1305 Memorial Avenue): Here you can find administrative employee parking. 

To walk in through any of the public gates, go to Gate 1A, 1B (bus groups), 4, 5, 7, or 9A. 

when is the big e in 2025?

The Big E starts on Friday, September 12th and runs continuously every single day until Sunday, September 28th of this year. That means that this is a 17 day long fair! The fair gates open at 8:00 am, the Big E bakery opens at 9:00 am, and everything else opens at 10:00 am (Buildings and Craft Common, Avenue of States and Storrowton Village Museum & Shops, and the New England Center). Rides open at 10:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, but they don't open until 11:00 am from Sunday through Thursday each week.

ticket information & Pricing for the big e

Gate prices for a one-day ticket are $20 for adults and $12 for children between the ages of 6 to 12 years old. Children 5 and under are always free. There are gate discounts on certain days as well. September 12th is military appreciation day where active duty military personnel and dependents
or retired military personnel and veterans can get free admission with valid ID. Admission is $11 after 5:00 Sunday through Thursday each week. Admission is $16 for adults ages 60 and over from Sunday through Thursday each week. You can also purchase a "value" 17 day pass for $71.50 for adults or $36.50 for children ages 6-12 to go unlimited times to the fair this year.


There are also discounted prices if you purchase your tickets online by September 10th. The advance discount ticket prices are $17.50 for each one-day adult pass and $11.50 for each one-day child pass for children between the ages of 6 to 12.

new foods at the big e in 2025

One of the best parts of visiting the Big E every single year is trying the new foods of the year. Below outlines a list of the new food vendors and their specialties:

The Broccoli Bar (Springfield Road): Specialties include boiled veggie dumplings with house made broccoli yum-yum sauce and broccoli tempura drizzled with maple-siracha sauce.

Crave Cafe (Young Building): Their main specialty is the strawberry Dubai cup with fresh strawberries, pistachio cream, hazelnut chocolate, and crisp kataifi topped with roasted pistachios. They also have signature sweet crepes with fresh fruit purée, house-made whipped cream, and sweet sauces.

Steaming Tender (Craft Common): Their specialty is whiskey bread pudding with a secret whiskey sauce. 

The Spirited Christmas Bar Featuring V-One Vodka (Young Building): This booth features  Christmas-themed cocktails crafted with V-One Vodka — an ultra-premium spirit made from 100% organic spelt grain in Kamień, Poland. 

The Krakow Smoking Dragon Bar, Featuring V-One Vodka (Young Building): 

The Legend of the Wawel Dragon in Kraków, Poland, symbolizes cleverness and bravery — one of the country’s most celebrated myths. The Smoking Dragon in the Young Building, brings that spirit to life with specialty hand-crafted “smoking” cocktails, each served in a commemorative take-home cup. 

The Austrian Hideaway (Young Building): 

The Austrian-inspired lodge is a cozy space featuring wall-mounted fireplaces, patio lighting, and a comfortable seating area, creating a unique and relaxing experience. The lodge will showcase a craft brewery selection including Von Trapp, Frost Beer Works, Burlington Beer Company, and The Alchemist, among others.

Java Jungle (Commonwealth Avenue): Specialties include the dirty monkey frappuccino which is a blended, frozen drink made with coffee, chocolate, banana and peanut butter or the salted caramel cappuccino. 

Hot Wisconsin Cheese (Springfield Road): The Super Combo is their signature menu item which includes cheese curds, jalapeño cheddar curds, mozzarella curds and cheddar nuggets. They also have monster mozzarella, which is a ¼ pound of mozzarella encrusted in crispy Panko that's deep-fried and served with marinara sauce.

There are also countless classic vendors that have been at the Big E for years that now have new menu items, including:

The Big E Bakery: Espresso cream puffs

Amy’s Sweet Treats: Pickle sundaes and a pickle milkshakes

Anna’s Fried Dough: Sloppy joe sandwiches made with fried dough

Barbie’s Ice Cream: Chips Ahoy Sundae

The Nook: Chocolate-covered strawberries, smashed potatoes, and loaded hash browns 

International Lobster House: Lobster Volcano, which is a bread bowl with lobster bisque and lobster chunks

Chompers: Meat lover’s pizza chomper

Apple Fries: Jolly Rancher Creamsicle

Kora’s Cookie Dough:  Deep-fried cookie dough sundae

Ferrindino Maple: Warm apple maple creemee sundae

Fluffy’s Hand Cut Donuts: Hot honey jalapeño popper donut

NOLA Cajun Kitchen and Raw Bar: Asian sticky ribs with Thai chili crisp 

Jack’s Fries: Flaming hot fries with cheese, crushed Hot Cheetos and fresh jalapeño slices.

Deep Fried Tacos: Deep-fried chicken enchilada

Jungle Juice Smoothies: Strawberry mango lemonade smoothie

Cinnamon Saloon: Salted caramel cinnamon bun and the frozen apple cider slushy

Macho Taco: Al pastor street tacos and deep-fried chile relleno

Piche Concessions: Deep-fried strawberry shortcake

Meatball Factory: Elote corn dog

Soup R Bowl: Bacon clam chowder in a bread bowl

Wurst Haus: Paprika schnitzel sandy

White Hut: Two-foot giant chili cheese dog

Top The Crust: Loaded nacho pizza, spicy peach pork pizza, farm stand chicken pizza, crab rangoon pizza and candy bar pizza

Poutine Gourmet: Garlic parmesan truffle poutine

The Mick Express: Frankie’s crazy alfredo bar

Live entertainment & events at the big e in 2025

Here is the lineup for all the headline performers this year:

September 12: Gov't Mule with JJ Grey and Mofro at 7:30 pm 

September 13: Busta Rhymes & Rick Ross at 7:30 pm 

September 14: Cole Swindell with John Morgan at 7:30 pm 

September 18: Collector Car Live with Ryan Preece from 1:00-5:00 pm 

September 19: TLC with Big Boi at 7:30 pm 

September 20: The Avett Brothers at 7:30 pm 

September 21: Foreigner at 7:30 pm 

September 26: The Kid LAROI at a TBD time. 

September 27: Train at 7:30 pm 

September 28: ZZ Top at 7:30 pm 

TIPS FOR VISITING THE BIG E FOR THE FIRST TIME

If you’re heading to the Big E for the very first time, a little planning will make your trip even more enjoyable. With thousands of visitors, countless food stands, concerts, and agricultural exhibits, it helps to know what to expect before you arrive. Here are a few tips to make the most of your day at New England’s biggest fair:

Get There Early: Arrive when the gates open to avoid long lines and secure easier parking. Morning visits also mean cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.

Buy Tickets and Wristbands Ahead: Save time and money by purchasing admission tickets or unlimited ride wristbands online in advance.

Plan Your Day Around Events: Check the official schedule for parades, horse shows, and concerts so you don’t miss the attractions you’re most excited to see.

Know the Bag & Food Policy: Small bags are allowed but will be checked at the gate. Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted, though sealed water bottles are allowed.

Dress for Comfort: The fairgrounds cover about 175 acres — wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers for New England’s changing fall weather, and stay hydrated.

Beat the Evening Rush: If you prefer lighter crowds, visit on a weekday or arrive early in the morning. Weekends get busier, especially during popular events like the Big E concert series or the famous Mardi Gras parade.

Plan Your Next Adventure After the Big E

From thrilling midway rides and mouthwatering food at the Big E Bakery to lively concerts, horse shows, and classic New England traditions, the Big E 2025 is an experience you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a local or visiting Massachusetts for the season, the fair is the perfect way to celebrate fall with family, friends, and a whole lot of fun. I share even more about New England getaways, international destinations (17 countries and counting!), and tips for making travel more affordable with credit card rewards right here on the blog. Be sure to subscribe for updates and scroll down to explore more Massachusetts travel guides and fall adventures to help you plan your next trip!

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You Ask & I Answer

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How big is The Big E?

    The entire fairgrounds span about 175 acres, featuring five major exhibition buildings with over 355,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space.

  • How long does The Big E last?

    The fair opens on the second Friday after Labor Day and runs for 17 days.

  • Who owns The Big E?

    The Big E is hosted by the Eastern States Exposition, which is a not-for-profit organization governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees representing the six New England states.

  • Where is the Big E horse show held?

    Daily horse shows take place in the Big E Coliseum (Eastern States Coliseum).

  • Where is the Big E bakery?

    The Big E Bakery opens at 9 a.m. and remains open until 10:30 p.m. each fair day.

  • Where is the Big E arena?

    The main arena, known as the Big E Coliseum, seats around 5,900–6,000 people and hosts shows including horse competitions.

  • What bands are performing at The Big E in 2025?

    Headline acts for 2025 include Gov’t Mule (Sept 12), Busta Rhymes & Rick Ross (Sept 13), Cole Swindell with John Morgan (Sept 14), Collector Car Live with Ryan Preece (Sept 18), and TLC with Big Boi (Sept 19). All concerts include fair admission.

  • What day of the week is the best day to go to The Big E?

    Weekdays are suggested for a more relaxed experience, while weekends tend to be busier with heavier crowds and traffic.

  • Where is the cheapest parking at The Big E?

    On-site parking at Gate 9 costs $10 for cars/trucks (cash only). Bicycle parking is free at 915 Memorial Avenue.

  • What time of day is the best time to go to The Big E?

    The gates open at 8 a.m., giving early visitors a head start on exploring major attractions before the crowds peak.

  • Can I bring my own water into The Big E?

    Specific rules about outside water are not directly stated, but like many fairs, The Big E likely restricts outside food and drinks—check official policy or plan to refill on-site.

  • Can I bring a bag to The Big E?

    Yes, but bags are subject to security checks at the entrance.

  • Can I bring my pet to The Big E?

    Pets are not allowed, except for service animals.