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The Big E goes large for Connecticut Day

The state plays prominently in the attendance totals, according to Gene Cassidy, the president and CEO of the Big E.

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — More crowds and more excitement have come to the fairgrounds in West Springfield, and that was apparent on Connecticut Day at the Big E.

Every year, the Big E celebrates Connecticut Day, typically during the first Wednesday of the fair.

The state plays prominently in the attendance totals, according to Gene Cassidy, the president and CEO of the Big E

RELATED: Connecticut crowds exceed expectation for return of Big E

“Most of our attendance at the state fair comes from the State of Connecticut, 44% comes from Connecticut so it’s our biggest market,” Cassidy said.

On the Avenue of the States at the Big E, the Connecticut Building was especially busy, showcasing an array of products -- but the food choices stole the spotlight.

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At a bustling booth inside the Connecticut Building, Victor Rivera, a manager from Lenny and Joe’s Fish Tale in Westbrook, was tending to the Connecticut-style lobster rolls.

“If you’re going to have a lobster roll you have to come to Connecticut,” Rivera said. 

Connecticut craft beers were also front and center for visitors to try out.

“We’re really excited about seeing everybody who drove up from Connecticut and giving them a taste of our beer," said Kat Manning, who is the digital marketing manager from Two Roads Brewing Company in Stratford. "Maybe they are from out of state and coming to see what Connecticut has to offer and we’re here to show them what we are made of.” 

RELATED: Fare Game: The Big E showcases new food, drinks for 2022

Rhonda Olisky, the co-manager of the Connecticut Building, said she sees more energy all over the fairgrounds this year.

“There is definitely a vibe, the excitement is back,” she said.

To learn more about the 2022 Big E, click here.

Jimmy Altman is a reporter at FOX61 News. He can be reached at jaltman@fox61.com. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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