The Big E

The Big E

Last week I experienced The Big E also known as the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. They bill themselves as New England’s Greatest State Fair and it is the largest agricultural event on the eastern seaboard. It is a gathering where all the New England States present their wares and foods. There are rides on the midway, craft exhibits, horse shows, bands and a center for the latest in housewares – a real old fashioned country fair.

The best part of the Big E to me was the fun and frivolous foods and I made sure I sampled as much as possible. I passed on the Big E Craz-E Burger – a bacon cheeseburger with the works sandwiched between two glazed donuts. I would like to admit that I would have probably tried it if I was alone, but in front of my husband and friends Ann and Roy, I felt the urge to practice some measure of restraint. 

I was not a taker for the deep fried butter balls either, but I did indulge in the deep fried Oreos. I had always wanted to try them and now I see why they gain popularity as a fun food at the fair, they are delicious! They are dipped in donut batter, deep fried and and dusted with powdered sugar. The Oreo inside melts – sheer delicious decadence! I also tried the chocolate covered bacon; The Chocolate Goddess cannot let that opportunity pass her by. It came in white, milk, and dark chocolate dipped flavors. I opted for the milk chocolate – it was surprisingly good!

Having had enough bacon and chocolate, I did not try the bacon S’mores but I will next time. Two girls from Connecticut - Kelly and Kristen assured me they were more than worth the calories. They did smell delicious – hmmm maybe next year.

I topped of the day with cheese balls (they are like mozzarella sticks only ball-shaped), assorted flavors of Whoopee pies, fudge, and pumpkin chocolate chips. Don’t worry, I forced down a turkey sandwich and some veggies somewhere around lunch time to get some nutrients and relieve some of my guilt. 

I am already planning next year’s Big E delights. There is The Big E Éclair, The Big E Cream Puff, clam chowder, corn dogs, great grilled cheeses with a myriad of choices, maple sugar products, Belgian Waffles, and fried dough with toppings. Once a year, you get to have some over-indulgent fun – The Goddess says so!