Avenue of States
For Immediate Release -- West Springfield, Mass. -- August 2009
THE AVENUE OF STATES
Take in the best New England has to offer at The Big E while strolling along the Avenue of States where each state proudly exhibits its own unique offerings and traditions. Enjoy the native foods, products, crafts and recreational opportunities that each state provides for resident New Englanders and New Englanders at heart.
Connecticut Building - Visitors to New England's Constitution State can enjoy the beautiful beaches, rolling hills, picturesque lodgings, fascinating history and incredible casino excitement that the state has to offer. If you couldn't visit Connecticut this summer, you're in luck! Some of the state's best resources are being brought to The Big E. Spend some of your time at the Fair browsing Connecticut products. Be sure to sample some of Connecticut's delicious fare including Brian's Fry Bread, Frankie's Hot Dogs, Emilee's Italian Ice and something for your sweet tooth at Rosie Blake's Candies. Your trip to The Big E won't be complete without a stop at LEGO, the Global Gecko, Florian pruning tools or the Timex Factory exhibit, all in the Connecticut Building. Visit on Connecticut Day, Sept. 23, and witness musical performances on the lawn, special participation in The Big E Daily Parade and more.
Maine Building - Many people travel to Maine for the fresh-from-the-ocean "lobstahs," the exquisite wildlife, and the serene coastline and landscape. Now, the best of the Pine Tree State travels to you at The Big E. After checking out all the exhibits, be sure to get in line for the famous Maine Baked Potato or a mouth-watering lobster roll! This year's exhibitors in the Maine Building include The Wild Blueberry Commission, Isamax Snacks' "Wicked Whoopies" in a variety of flavors, nature-inspired jewelry from Lovell Designs and travel posters by Maine artist Alan Claude. Visit on Maine Day, Oct. 3, and see performances by international singer/songwriter Debbie Myers in addition to other activities on the front lawn.
Massachusetts Building - With the Salem Witches, the Mayflower, Cape Cod and the Berkshires, the Bay State offers the public history, agriculture and beautiful scenery. It is easy to understand why tourists flock to Massachusetts and why the residents take such pride in their Commonwealth. The Massachusetts Building at The Big E, a replica of the original Statehouse, boasts the best of the state from Martha's Vineyard to Stockbridge. Stop by Soft as a Grape clothing, Nantucket Bag Co. and other exhibitors to purchase products handcrafted here in the Bay State. Enjoy wonderful foods from the Mass. Farmers Market, Ooh La La Fudge, Pittsfield Rye & Specialty Breads, Finn Cakes and so much more! On Massachusetts Day, Sept. 24, demonstrations and performances showcasing Massachusetts' talents will take place at the building.
New Hampshire Building - Visit the Granite State and enjoy homemade fudge and candies, treat yourself to the luxury of handmade soaps and lotions, and buy man's best friend a special gift, all under one roof. The New Hampshire Building maintains exhibits for visitors to sample a taste of the state without ever leaving The Big E. Check it out and see the best the state of New Hampshire has to offer. Exhibitors include Critter Gear, Mt. Moosilauke Candies, the New Hampshire Lottery and new additions Peggy Anne's Quilting & Sewing Company and McMaster Weaving. Stop by the building on New Hampshire Day, Sept. 25, to see a the Keene Cheshiremen Barbershop Singers, Ameranouche Jazz band, and the Black Bear Moon Rhythm Ensemble, a demonstration of covered bridge timber frame construction and much more!
Rhode Island Building - The Ocean State offers visitors plenty of restful leisure, urban excitement and beautiful views too. And, if you missed the chance to visit this corner of New England this year, Rhode Island is now coming to visit you! The Rhode Island Building at The Big E invites you to spend some time taking in a taste of the most popular sites Rhode Island has to offer. While you're there, be sure to enjoy Rhode Island's famous clam cakes. Exhibitors in the Rhode Island Building include Bad Dog Tools, Del's Lemonade, Kenyon Corn Meal Company, Tucker Seafood, Valerie's Creations, Cabral Embroidery and many more. On Rhode Island Day, Sept. 22, visitors will witness performances and demonstrations from this great New England state.
Vermont Building - Vermont is known for its friendly people, historic villages, fabulous foods, working farms and, of course, real maple syrup. Visit the Vermont Building on the Avenue of States and breathe in the aroma of fresh baked cookies, sample fresh, cold milk and cheddar cheese and plan a ski vacation all at the same time. The Green Mountain State provides fairgoers with a glimpse of its foods, agriculture and shops featuring everything from handmade crafts to hard-to-find antiques. Try American Flatbread Stone Oven pizza, a beverage from Otter Creek Brewing, Inc. or the Cold Hollow Cider Mill and take home something sweet from Vermont Maple Sugarmakers. Vermont Day is Sept. 26 with performances including the all-American favorites from the Brattleboro American Legion Band, Rick & the Ramblers western Swing band of Burlington; and traditional music from New England, Canada and the British Isles with Atlantic Crossing of Ripton, on the lawn, and Vermont marching bands and contingents in The Big E Daily Parade.
Join us for New England's Autumn Tradition at The Big E, Sept. 18-Oct. 4, 2009 in West Springfield, Mass. For more information, visit our website at TheBigE.com or call our information line at 413-205-5115.
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Editor's Note: All press releases and photos are available on TheBigE.com/media.