WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — For the first time in three decades, the Connecticut Building at the Big E has undergone a major renovation that significantly upgraded the interior of the space.
The Connecticut Office of Statewide Marketing & Tourism said that the refreshed interior aligns with the state’s latest branding initiatives. It features many different visual and interactive features highlighting why Connecticut is a great place to live, work and play.
The renovated building will be open on full display during this year’s fair, which runs from Sept. 13-29.
According to the Office of Statewide Marketing & Tourism, major upgrades to the building include a refreshed interior that reflects Connecticut’s latest branding, which launched in 2023 and prominently features the iconic C+T logo. A digital monument standing nearly 10 feet tall is now located at the building’s entrance as well.
The space also features the “CT Zone,” an interactive area that highlights Connecticut’s innovation with engaging activities for attendees of all ages such as an astronaut spacesuit and a quarter-scale jet engine model on display from RTX, and a lunar lander exhibit from the Connecticut Science Center.
The Office of Statewide Marketing & Tourism adds that the building will include the first-ever “Shop CT” experience, which was created in collaboration with The Bristol Bazaar. It will also feature Connecticut-branded merchandise. Numerous Instagram-worthy backdrops and visuals for visitors to capture memorable photos will also be available too.
Anthony Anthony, chief marketing officer for the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, said the renovation of the Connecticut Building is a project that has been near and dear to his heart.
“We are excited to welcome visitors to the newly renovated Connecticut Building. It’s more than just an update—it’s a more vibrant and modern reflection of our state’s pride and progress,” Anthony said. “Every feature was thoughtfully designed to make Connecticut stand out as a destination people will want to explore, not just a pass through.”
This year, more than 50 vendors will set up in the Connecticut Building, according to the Office of Statewide Marketing & Tourism. Fairgoers can access culinary delights, an expanded Connecticut Craft Beer Garden, a range of Connecticut-made products and shops, over 15 wine varieties, returning favorites, businesses new to the fair, interactive exhibits and state-grown products.
Connecticut Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt said it’s great to be back in the Connecticut Building, which provides agricultural businesses throughout the state a platform to display their goods to visitors from New England and beyond.
“We are pleased to showcase a total of 20 unique agriculture businesses along with 10 Connecticut farm wineries,” Hurlburt said. “We hope our exhibits inspire fairgoers to plan visits to these great small businesses and enjoy some of the wonderful agritourism offerings that can be found throughout Connecticut as part of the CT Grown Trail.”
Wednesday, Sept. 18 will be Connecticut Day at the Big E. The day-long celebration will include a parade and more than 10 hours of live entertainment, including performances by several bands and musicians on the lawn in front of the Connecticut Building.
Three new musical acts will take the stage for the first time: Nashville recording artist Nick Bosse, the School of Rock New Canaan House Band and the award-winning Connecticut rock band Red Light, which is led by Rachel Lenda, the tourism director for the Office of Statewide Marketing & Tourism.
“This year’s renovation of the Connecticut Building isn’t just a reflection of our state’s dynamic spirit—it’s an invitation to experience Connecticut in new and exciting ways,” Lenda said. “I’m especially thrilled to be part of the live entertainment lineup with my band, Red Light, bringing our state’s vibrant culture to the stage. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, or the innovative displays, there’s something for everyone to discover. We can’t wait to welcome visitors and show them why Connecticut is truly the place to be.”
The Connecticut Building will be open each day during The Big E from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. More information can be found on the Connecticut Building’s Facebook page.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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