The Big E has broken multiple attendance records in 2024, with 1,039,293 people attending so far. The fair, which runs from Sept. 13-29, is considered one of the largest in the U.S. and Canada. The increase in attendance not only means more people enjoying the fair’s offerings, such as cream puffs, rides, and shopping, but also has a significant impact on the Eastern States Exposition’s ability to support farmers. The awards farmers receive at the fair help them sell and breed their cattle at higher prices and improve the lineage of the animals. The fair plays a crucial role in allowing farmers to share best practices and exchange knowledge.
Eugene J. Cassidy, president and CEO of the Eastern States Exposition, highlighted the importance of the fair’s success for the organization. About 87% of the Eastern States Exposition’s budget comes from the fair, making it a vital source of revenue to support their operations. Cassidy projected a net income of $2.5 million after the 2023 fair, with the potential for even higher earnings in a good year.
The Big E set a new attendance record on its final Monday with 86,673 people, and also broke records over the weekend, including a single-day attendance record of 178,608 on Saturday. The strong attendance numbers reflect the popularity and success of the fair, which continues to draw in visitors from the region.
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