WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass.-  One of the biggest festivals in the country, The Big E, is back in western Massachusetts.

​Also known as the Eastern States Exposition located in West Springfield, the festival is known to host many attractions including rides, food trucks, and other activities. ​

What You Need To Know

  • The Big E festival is back in West Springfield

  • This year, the fair has a new exhibit, "The Front Porch," which promotes small businesses

  • The exhibit hosts booths for businesses making their debut at the fair

  • The festival will run until October 2 and locals looking to attend the event can sign up online or at the front gate

This year, the fair has opened up a brand new exhibit called "The Front Porch" where many small businesses and vendors are having their first opportunity to showcase their brand.

"They came down and saw us this year at in January at the Florida State Fair and invited us to come up here," said BoardWok Noodles owner Chris Bayle. "They thought we would do well and looks like we're doing pretty well so we're excited."

The BoardWok Noodles shop is based out of Ohio and began operations three years ago, offering freshly made yakisoba and lo mein noddles.

Bayle said times have been extremely challenging for small businesses lately so having an opportunity to expand their reach on a big stage is valuable. 

"In this climate in the country it's important to be out here with the people," said Bayle. "Showing them that small businesses' are still going forward and making an effort to make a living."

Feel Good Shop Local is another small business that is having an opportunity to make their Big E debut at The Porch.

The online store, along with business partner Harper James, are making their presence known through fashion.

"I work with Feel Good Shop Local, I'm one of their sellers," said Harper James owner Kayla Diggins. "They were kind enough to showcase all of us at The Big E this year. This is their first time, our first time as well.

"It's extremely exciting and an amazing opportunity. We're so excited to see all of the people that come out over the next three weeks."

Diggins said her online business began in March of this year and has been doing pop ups all over western Massachusetts.

She said as a business that's just starting up, it's great timing for her brand to get exposure and meet new people along the way.

"I love to be involved in the community and the Big E is such a huge event for western Mass, even New England in general," said Diggins. "Just to have a presence here and get our name out here."

The festival will run until October 2 and locals looking to attend the event can sign up online or at the front gate.