Whenever I travel and mention to people that I am from Massachusetts, they immediately envision Boston. When I tell them that I live in Western Massachusetts, they look puzzled, like they're trying to search for a visual and can't quite come up with it. Western Mass has so many wonderful communities and offers a million things to do. One of my favorites is going to The Eastern States Exposition, or The Big E, as it is now known.
The Big E is a multi-state regional fair that takes place in West Springfield, Massachusetts each fall. For three weeks, the fairgounds are teaming with over 1-million visitors, many of whom return year after year from all over the country just to reconnect with the fun, food and activities that are only found here. A local radio station recently reported that over $7.5 million dollars is added to the local W. Springfield economy during this three week period alone.
So, what can you do if you go to the Big E? Here are some of my faves:
- Standing in line for a Maine baked potato - a meal in itself
- Finding the Tempura Veggie Stand - hey, at least they're vegetables!
- Eating lunch and resting in the cool horse arena - great jumping
- Almost coming home with an adopted Greyhound
- Watching the chickens hatch
- Picking up camping and inn brochures in all the state buildings
- Patting the sheep - baaaaah
- Sitting in the vibrating chair in the Better Living Center
- Watching the chickens hatch
- Trying to win a Morgan Horse - every year I tried!
- Viewing the art exhibits
- Walking the midway - no rides for me
- Enjoying apple pie for desert
- Watching the chickens hatch
- Learning about llamahs - why can't I spell that?
- Counting the piglets - must be at least 16, nursing from a giant sow
- Coming home tired and happy.
If you've been to the Big E, what are your favorite memories? I'm sure I've forgotten some good ones!
Massachusetts 4 Sale By Owner
2 Mechanic St., C-1
Easthampton, MA 0102
MA4salebyowner.com
and introducing. . . . . HomesByOwner.com!
;)
;)
