Press Release: 9/16/2026
Governor Healey Encourages Visitors to Explore Massachusetts Building at the Big E
For immediate release:
9/15/2026
West Springfield — Governor Healey today announced that the Massachusetts State Exposition Building will welcome visitors back for the 2026 Big E, which runs from Friday, September 18 through Sunday, October 4. This year, 42 Massachusetts businesses and organizations will showcase locally grown food, handmade products, agricultural exhibits and more.
Since 1919, the Massachusetts building has welcomed generations of Big E fairgoers and remains the oldest replica statehouse along the Avenue of States. This year, visitors can return to longtime favorites, discover new vendors and meet the farmers, small business owners and makers behind products from across Massachusetts.
“The Big E is a New England tradition and a great opportunity to show off everything Massachusetts has to offer,” said Governor 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 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 Lieutenant Governor 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.”
Visitors will find lobster rolls, Finnish pancakes, honey, artisanal candles, specialty soaps, interactive games, handcrafted baseball bats, fine jewelry, local photography, specialty dips, Massachusetts wine, savory sliders, and more. Outside, the building’s rustic beer garden will return with craft beer made with grains grown in Western Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is also excited to welcome eight new food and retail vendors, which include Craic Sauce, Dave Russo Art , Delaney's Market, Half Moon Permanent Jewelry, Iona's Kitchen, Madhrasi, Sugar Candle, and Traveling Bohemian. A complete listing of this year’s vendors can be found here.
“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, or local craft beverages, there is something here for everyone to enjoy and take home.”
"There's something powerful about watching visitors discover Massachusetts through the hands of the people who grow and make it," said Kate Fox, Executive Director at the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. "That connection between our farms, our small businesses, and the travelers who find them is exactly what keeps people coming back to Massachusetts."
The Massachusetts Building will feature three dedicated recognition days: Military Appreciation Day on Friday, September 18, Massachusetts Day on Thursday, September 24, and Harvest New England Day on Friday, October 2.Specific events and programming will take place on these days.
The building will be open daily to welcome visitors from 10AM to 9PM. For directions, parking information, and ticket details, please visit the Big E’s website.
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