A Taste of New England: State Building Delights
Imagine a place where the aroma of freshly baked apple cider donuts hangs heavy in the air, where the sizzle of frying dough competes with the lively chatter of excited crowds, and where deep-fried everything is not only acceptable but celebrated. Welcome to The Big E, the annual Eastern States Exposition held in West Springfield, Massachusetts, a 17-day extravaganza that showcases the best of New England. While The Big E offers a dizzying array of attractions, from thrilling rides to impressive livestock exhibits, it’s the food at Big E that truly steals the show. The Big E is more than just rides and livestock; it’s a culinary playground where you can indulge in regional specialties, discover unique creations, and satisfy every craving imaginable. The sheer variety and quality of offerings elevates it as one of the best state fairs for culinary adventuring in the nation.
One of the most beloved aspects of The Big E is its celebration of New England’s unique culinary heritage. Each of the six New England states – Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut – boasts its own dedicated building, offering visitors a chance to sample authentic dishes and regional specialties. These state buildings are more than just food vendors; they are culinary embassies, offering a glimpse into the gastronomic soul of each state.
Let’s embark on a culinary tour of these state buildings:
Maine
Step inside the Maine building, and you’ll be greeted by the irresistible aroma of Maine lobster rolls. Fresh lobster meat, lightly dressed with mayonnaise and nestled in a perfectly toasted New England-style roll, is a quintessential Maine experience. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a slice of homemade blueberry pie, bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of wild Maine blueberries. And for the more adventurous palate, sample some fiddleheads, a seasonal delicacy with a unique, slightly grassy flavor.
New Hampshire
The New Hampshire building is a haven for apple lovers. The aroma of freshly baked apple cider donuts is enough to lure anyone inside. Warm, cakey, and coated in cinnamon sugar, these donuts are the perfect treat on a crisp autumn day. Be sure to explore the vast selection of maple syrup products, from pure maple syrup to maple candies and maple cream.
Vermont
Vermont is synonymous with dairy, and the Vermont building does not disappoint. A maple creemee, a soft-serve ice cream infused with pure maple syrup, is an absolute must-try. Indulge in a block of Vermont cheddar cheese, renowned for its sharp, tangy flavor. And no visit to the Vermont building is complete without a stop at the Ben & Jerry’s booth, where you can sample some of their iconic ice cream flavors. It’s worth waiting in line; the freshly churned ice cream and friendly service will undoubtedly be memorable.
Massachusetts
The Massachusetts building showcases the state’s diverse culinary traditions. Fried clams, crispy and golden brown, are a classic New England dish that’s perfectly executed here. Sample cranberry products of every kind, from cranberry sauce to cranberry juice to cranberry bog-frosted cookies. Don’t miss the chance to savor an Italian sausage sandwich, piled high with peppers and onions.
Rhode Island
The Rhode Island building is a celebration of coastal flavors. Clam cakes, bite-sized fritters filled with chopped clams, are a Rhode Island staple. Wash them down with a glass of coffee milk, a uniquely Rhode Island beverage made with coffee syrup and milk. On a hot day, cool off with a cup of Del’s Lemonade, a refreshing frozen lemonade that’s a Rhode Island institution.
Connecticut
The Connecticut building features some of the state’s most unique culinary offerings. Steamed cheeseburgers, a Connecticut specialty, are a surprisingly delicious combination of juicy burger meat and melted cheese, steamed to perfection. Sample apizza, a thin-crust pizza with a distinctive charred crust, a New Haven tradition. And enjoy the many cider options.
These state buildings offer more than just food at Big E; they offer a taste of New England’s history and culture. It’s a chance to connect with the region’s culinary traditions and discover new favorites.
Beyond the Classics: Outrageous Fair Food and Unexpected Delights
While the state buildings offer a taste of New England’s culinary heritage, The Big E is also known for its adventurous and often outrageous fair food. Every year, vendors unveil new and innovative creations, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with deep-frying, grilling, and other culinary techniques.
Of course, you will find the standard fair food staples, like Fried Dough. Pillowy soft and covered in powdered sugar, fried dough is a simple pleasure that’s hard to resist. Other classics include juicy corn dogs, fluffy cotton candy, and of course, the Big E’s famous cream puffs. These oversized pastries, filled with light and airy whipped cream, are a Big E tradition, and are a must-try for any visitor. The lines may be long, but the cream puffs are worth the wait.
However, the real excitement comes from the more unusual offerings. In recent years, visitors have been treated to deep-fried butter, pickle pizza, and even spaghetti donuts. These creations may sound strange, but they are a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the fair food vendors.
The novelty and appeal of these items lie in their sheer outrageousness. It’s a chance to try something completely different, something that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. Whether you love them or hate them, these unique food at Big E offerings are sure to spark conversation and create lasting memories. There’s an undeniable sense of fun and indulgence that comes with trying these dishes.
Discovering Hidden Gems and Supporting Local Vendors
While the state buildings and the outrageous food creations are the main attractions, The Big E also boasts a wealth of hidden gems and local vendors. These smaller stalls offer a chance to discover unique and authentic food at Big E experiences that you might otherwise miss.
Explore the international food vendors, offering flavors from around the world. Sample pierogies and kielbasa from Polish vendors, gyros and souvlaki from Greek stalls, or tacos and empanadas from Latin American food trucks. These vendors often offer generous portions at reasonable prices.
Don’t overlook the gourmet food trucks, offering a variety of creative and upscale dishes. You might find lobster mac and cheese, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, or artisanal pizzas. These food trucks often use high-quality ingredients and offer a more sophisticated dining experience than traditional fair food.
Finally, take the time to visit the local farm stands, offering fresh produce, homemade jams, and other local products. These stands provide a connection to the region’s agricultural heritage and offer a chance to support local farmers and producers. It may not be what you expect when thinking about the food at Big E, but provides a palate cleanser from the grease!
Finding the best deals and avoiding long lines takes a bit of strategy. Visit during off-peak hours, such as weekdays or early mornings. Look for vendors that offer smaller portions or sample sizes, allowing you to try more dishes without breaking the bank.
Navigating the Culinary Delights: Pro Tips
To make the most of your culinary adventure at The Big E, it’s important to come prepared. Here are some tips for navigating the food scene:
First and foremost, come hungry. With so many tempting options, you’ll want to pace yourself and plan your eating strategy. Consider creating a list of must-try items and prioritize those that are most appealing to you.
Share with friends or family. Splitting larger items is a great way to try more variety without overeating or spending too much money.
Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept credit or debit cards. Having cash on hand will also help you avoid ATM fees.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. The rich and indulgent food at Big E can be dehydrating, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. The Big E is a sprawling fairground, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Consider bringing a small cooler to store leftovers or drinks. This can be especially useful if you plan to purchase perishable items from the farm stands.
A Culinary Celebration: The Big E Experience
The Big E is more than just a fair; it’s a culinary celebration that showcases the best of New England’s food and culture. It’s a place where you can indulge in regional specialties, discover unique creations, and create lasting memories with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned fair-goer or a first-time visitor, The Big E offers a food adventure you won’t soon forget. Come hungry, bring your appetite, and get ready to indulge in the flavors of New England! From the savory lobster rolls of Maine to the sweet maple creemees of Vermont, the food at Big E is an experience unlike any other.
