EASTERN STATES EXPO (THE BIG E)

Eastern States Exposition (The Big E) is a 175-acre fairgrounds and event complex in West Springfield, Massachusetts. The Xfinity Arena (formerly the Big E Coliseum) seats approximately 5,900-6,000 for concerts and events. The fairgrounds also include multiple outdoor stages, exhibit halls, and the six New England state buildings.

The Big E's 17-day annual fair runs each September, drawing over 1.5 million visitors and ranking as the fourth-largest fair in North America. The Xfinity Arena hosts headline concert acts during the fair and additional events year-round. Beyond the fair, the grounds host consumer shows, equestrian events, and agricultural exhibitions throughout the year.

The Eastern States Exposition was founded by Joshua L. Brooks as a way to bring all six New England states together while promoting agriculture. The first fair took place in October 1916, drawing 45,000 attendees to what was then 175 acres of former swampland. The Coliseum was built in 1916 and originally hosted agricultural and dairy exhibitions. The arena later became the home of the Springfield Indians AHL hockey team and briefly hosted the New England Whalers (WHA).