Eastern States Exposition (ESE) is proud to host The Big E, a celebration of agriculture, entertainment and community. To ensure a safe, welcoming and family-friendly experience for all, we ask every guest to follow the standards below while on the fairgrounds. Responsibility Matters! The Big E is best enjoyed when you take care of yourself and those around you. Make choices that keep the Fair safe, enjoyable and welcoming for everyone.
General Expectations
- Treat all guests, exhibitors, employees and performers with courtesy and respect.
- Follow all posted signage, staff instructions and applicable laws.
- Behave in a way that does not endanger or disrupt the enjoyment of others.
Prohibited Conduct
The following behaviors are not permitted on The Big E fairgrounds:
- Use of profane, obscene or offensive language, gestures, clothing or signage.
- Harassment, intimidation or threatening behavior toward others.
- Disruptive or unsafe conduct, including fighting, pushing or horseplay.
- Unauthorized solicitation, distribution of materials or commercial activity.
- Excessive drinking or disruptive intoxication, illegal drug use or possession of prohibited substances.
- Smoking, vaping or use of cannabis products.
- Vandalism, theft or damage to property.
- Unauthorized use of drones, professional camera equipment or media activity without prior approval.
Dress Code
- Shirts, pants and shoes are required at all times.
- Apparel or signage that includes profane, obscene or otherwise offensive content is prohibited.
- Guests may be asked to cover, change or remove inappropriate attire.
- Costumes, costume masks or full-face coverings are not permitted, except as part of an authorized performance or exhibit.
Animals on the Fairgrounds
The Big E is home to thousands of animals, including livestock competing in agricultural shows, as well as animals on display in Farm-A-Rama and the petting zoo. For their safety and yours:
- Petting Zoo: Guests may touch and feed animals in the designated petting zoo areas, but only with approved food provided at the exhibit.
- Livestock & Show Animals: Do not touch, feed or enter enclosures unless expressly invited by an exhibitor or staff.
- Always supervise children closely around animals.
- Respect exhibitors’ directions and posted signage regarding animal interaction.
- Abusive behavior toward animals is strictly prohibited. This includes loud noises, sudden movements, hitting, grabbing, taunting, provoking or any other conduct that may startle, stress or cause harm to the animals.
- Service animals must remain under control at all times and are not permitted inside livestock pens or animal enclosures. If a service animal is disruptive to other animals, show management may ask the handler to leave the area.
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after interacting with animals.
Media & Influencers
- Working members of the media must request and receive advance credential approval from the Marketing Department.
- Influencers creating sponsored or professional content must also receive prior approval.
- Unauthorized media or influencer activity may result in removal from the grounds.
EnforcementAdmission to The Big E is a revocable license. Eastern States Exposition reserves the right to deny entry or remove any individual from the fairgrounds at any time, for any reason, without refund. Security personnel and law enforcement may be involved as necessary.
Reporting IssuesIf you see something concerning, please notify the nearest staff member, security officer or contact (413) 205-5555 during operating hours.