WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Massachusetts State Exposition Building will welcome visitors during the 2026 Big E with food, products and experiences from 42 Massachusetts businesses and organizations.
New rides and returning Alpine Bobs set to debut at The Big E
The fair runs from Friday, Sept. 18, through Sunday, Oct. 4. The Massachusetts Building will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The building will feature locally grown food, agricultural exhibits, handmade products and other offerings from across the state.
“The Big E is a New England tradition and a great opportunity to show off everything Massachusetts has to offer,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “Our farmers, small businesses and local makers are a huge part of what makes our communities special. We’re excited to welcome visitors back to the Massachusetts Building to support local businesses, enjoy some great food and discover something new.”
The Massachusetts Building has welcomed fairgoers since 1919 and is the oldest replica statehouse along the Avenue of States.
Visitors can return to longtime favorites while exploring new vendors and meeting farmers and small business owners. Offerings will include lobster rolls, Finnish pancakes, honey, artisanal candles, specialty soaps, interactive games, handcrafted baseball bats, fine jewelry, local photography, specialty dips, Massachusetts wine and savory sliders.
The building’s outdoor beer garden will also return, featuring craft beer made with grains grown in Western Massachusetts.
“The Massachusetts Building puts our local businesses in front of thousands of people and gives visitors a chance to experience the creativity and quality that Massachusetts is known for,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll. “Whether you’re a longtime favorite or a business joining the Massachusetts Building for the first time, this is an incredible opportunity to reach new customers and grow.”
Eight new food and retail vendors will join this year’s lineup:
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Half Moon Permanent Jewelry
“The Massachusetts Building is one of my favorite stops at the Big E because it brings Massachusetts agriculture to life,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “It’s a place to meet farmers and discover new products. Most importantly, it celebrates the people who care for our land and help put local food on tables across the state.”
“More than a century after it first welcomed visitors, the Massachusetts Building remains a roaring success in its mission to champion our state’s agricultural and commercial brilliance,” said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle. “It is a definitive must-visit destination at the Big E. Whether you are coming to enjoy authentic maple treats, clam chowder, Boston cream pies, handmade soaps and candles, or local craft beverages, there is something here for everyone to enjoy and take home.”
The building will also host three recognition days during the fair:
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Military Appreciation Day: Friday, Sept. 18
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Massachusetts Day: Thursday, Sept. 24
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Harvest New England Day: Friday, Oct. 2
Special events and programming will be held throughout those days.
“There’s something powerful about watching visitors discover Massachusetts through the hands of the people who grow and make it,” said Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism Executive Director Kate Fox. “That connection between our farms, our small businesses, and the travelers who find them is exactly what keeps people coming back to Massachusetts.”
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