County Fairs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a county fair tradition that dates back to the early 1800s, rooted in New England's agricultural societies. The Eastern States Exposition (the Big E) in West Springfield is the region's flagship, drawing over a million visitors as the largest fair in the Northeast. Beyond the Big E, agricultural fairs across the state celebrate Massachusetts' farming communities, from the cranberry bogs of the Southeast to the dairy farms of the Berkshires.
Massachusetts agricultural fairs emphasize home arts traditions including quilting, canning, and baking competitions. Many fairs are organized by local agricultural societies rather than county governments, giving them a distinctly community-driven character. 4-H and FFA programs are active at fairs across the state, and livestock shows remain a draw despite the state's increasingly suburban landscape.
Top County Fair Events in Massachusetts
- The Big E (Eastern States Exposition) — West Springfield; 17 days in September-October; the largest fair in the Northeast; craft vendors, home arts, livestock, and state-themed buildings for all six New England states
- Topsfield Fair — Topsfield Fairgrounds; early October; one of the oldest continuously running agricultural fairs in America (since 1818); livestock, home arts, and giant pumpkin contests
- Franklin County Fair — Greenfield; early September; celebrating the Connecticut River Valley's agricultural heritage with livestock and home arts
- Marshfield Fair — Marshfield Fairgrounds; August; South Shore agricultural fair with livestock, home arts, and a traditional midway
- Three County Fair — Northampton; Labor Day weekend; Hampshire, Franklin, and Hampden counties' agricultural showcase with livestock and craft exhibits
What to Expect
Massachusetts agricultural fairs run from late July through early October, with the biggest events concentrated in September and October. Livestock shows feature dairy and beef cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, and horses. Home arts buildings showcase quilting, canning, baked goods, and needlework, all judged with ribbon awards. Many fairs include ox pulls and draft horse competitions, reflecting New England farming heritage.
Admission fees vary, with the Big E charging around $18 and smaller agricultural fairs ranging from free to $15. Carnival midways, food vendors, and live entertainment are standard. New England fairs often have a fall harvest atmosphere, with apple cider, pumpkin displays, and autumn produce featured prominently alongside craft vendors and artisan demonstrations.
Popular Cities for County Fairs
- Boston — The Topsfield Fair and Marshfield Fair are within easy reach of the Greater Boston area
- Northampton — The Three County Fair and Franklin County Fair celebrate the Connecticut River Valley's agricultural traditions
- Cambridge — Eastern Massachusetts agricultural fairs at Topsfield and Marshfield serve the metro area's fairgoers
- Salem — The Topsfield Fair is just minutes from Salem, combining fall fair traditions with the North Shore autumn experience
See all craft events in Massachusetts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Big E?
The Eastern States Exposition, known as the Big E, is the largest fair in the Northeast, held over 17 days in September and October at the fairgrounds in West Springfield. It features buildings representing all six New England states, livestock shows, craft vendors, home arts competitions, carnival rides, and major entertainment acts.
What is the oldest fair in Massachusetts?
The Topsfield Fair, organized by the Essex Agricultural Society, has been running since 1818 and is one of the oldest continuously operating agricultural fairs in the United States. It takes place in early October and features livestock shows, home arts competitions, giant pumpkin weigh-offs, and a traditional carnival midway.
Do Massachusetts fairs have craft competitions?
Yes. Home arts divisions at Massachusetts agricultural fairs include quilting, canning, baking, needlework, and other handmade craft categories. The Big E and Topsfield Fair have particularly extensive competitions. Many fairs also host fine arts exhibitions and artisan vendor areas alongside traditional agricultural displays.