WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA. (WFSB) – Opening day at the Big E is in full swing.
For the first time in 30 years, the Connecticut building has some new features and a fresh look.
When you walk in, you’re greeted by a 10-foot digital sign that shows you why Connecticut is the hottest place to be.
Behind this new sign is an interactive area called the CT Zone. The CT Zone reinforces the idea that you can’t fly without Connecticut. It includes some aerospace exhibits for kids, including a lunar module from the Connecticut Science Center and a real astronaut suit.
“We wanted to share more about what Connecticut stands for and who we are. Whether it’s showing people that you can’t fly without Connecticut or that we’re the foodie capital of New England, that’s what Connecticut is all about,” said Anthony Anthony, chief marketing officer for the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.
Behind the CT Zone lies the first-ever Shop CT experience: a store where you can buy everything Connecticut-related, including a pizza-shaped candle that smells like the real thing.
Maureen St. Laurent and her husband Blair have had a booth in the Connecticut building for the past four years, selling items from their Wallingford-based business called Vinyl Designs.
Due to this year’s building changes, they have decided to offer some new items.
“We have some new tuners, which are coasters with Spotify codes. My husband makes them all and does all the hard work behind them,” Maureen said. “When you scan the coaster, it will play the whole album from your phone for you.”
Anthony, CT’s chief marketing officer, says he’s excited to show off the building’s renovations and encourages showgoers to come see it all.
“They have a few different things. They have Worcester Street Food,” he said. “They have a maple bacon stand. Right next to me you have J. Foster, a vendor that’s been there for a couple of years but has a lot more space.”
The building also offers your classic favorites like kettle corn and Danny’s BBQ.
The Connecticut Building is the second stop along the Avenue of States.
The building is open daily until 9 p.m.
They expect even larger crowds on Wednesday for Connecticut Day.
Live bands from Connecticut will play in front of the building throughout the day.
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