We're 22 days away!

It’s hard to believe but The Big E will be here in just three weeks from tomorrow, 8/27! You can really start to tell, too. Yesterday, I saw a crane carry a ticket booth past my window in the Brooks Building! It’s finally starting to feel like the Fair is in close range.

Even with 22 days left, there are a lot of things the grounds department are doing to prepare – so today, I took the golf cart and went to explore.

I put together this little video to show everyone what is happening :

Ticket booths are being placed at the gate entrances and tents are being set up around the grounds. They recently put the Farm-A-Rama sign on the sides of the Stroh building, which is one of my personal favorite buildings. I can’t wait to see the hatching chicks, tiny pigs and all the entertainment on the Farm-A-Rama stage!

I took a few shots of the Food Court, home of The Coffee Break which is now offering a whole new line of gastronomic delights including Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich, Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich, Fried Snickers, Fried Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bits and Frozen Hot Chocolate! Yummy! I can’t wait for all the food to get here!

Speaking of delicious new treats, everyone has to try the new Fried Jelly Beans this year on New England Avenue, near Gate 9A – sweet jelly beans rolled in funnel cake batter, fried until perfectly browned, and dusted with powdered sugar for the perfect soft, gooey treat. And maybe even Fried Butter, in plain or garlic, no less.

The Giant Slide stays up all year long, but doesn’t it look flashy? It was painted a fresh and bright new shade of yellow last month. And when you’re at The Big E this year, don’t miss the opportunity to check out the gorgeous new pond. It’s located right outside the Mallary Complex, and features benches, which are perfect for taking a short break from walking. The landscaping is so colorful and the gurgling water is so relaxing – and especially with the sun shining, I didn’t want to leave there today!

And of course, the bright blue Big E Gate banners are once again lining Memorial Ave!

There are still so many things left to do, and in just three weeks, this 175-acre fairground will transform into a magical place, filled with everything from smiling faces and competitive animals to tantalizing aromas and flashing lights. And I will be here to document it all… check back soon for another video documenting The Big E as it comes to life!