Maine Government News
2013 Big E Applications Due March 22
March 7, 2013
Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
OPPORTUNITY TO HELP SHOWCASE MAINE
For Immediate Release
March 7, 2013
Contact:
Jessica Nixon 207-287-3494 jessica.l.nixon@maine.gov
AUGUSTA – The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is inviting Maine businesses and organizations to apply for exhibit space in the State of Maine Building at the 2013 “Big E”. The Big E will be held from September 13 thru September 29.
The Eastern States Exposition (Big E) takes place every September in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Last year’s attendance set a new record, with 1,365,896 fairgoers passing through the Big E gates over seventeen days. The State of Maine building showcases Maine foods and products, as well as features information on Maine’s many recreational and vacation opportunities. Built in 1925, the building is one of six exibition halls representing each of the New England States. The Department of Agriculature, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) oversees Maine’s participation in this annual event.
DACF is providing Maine businesses and organizations with the opportunity to rent commercial space in the State of Maine Building. More than 850,000 of the fairgoers visit the state buildings located on the Avenue of States, affording a tremendous opportunity to promote Maine and Maine products.
The Department’s goal at the Big E is to “exhibit, publicize, and advertise Maine’s products and resources in agriculture, industry, fisheries, wildlife and recreation.” By presenting fairgoers with a balance of educational and commercial exhibits, participants exemplify Maine and its unique way of life. Only items which are produced, grown, crafted, manufactured or significantly altered in Maine may be sold in the Maine building.
The deadline for completed applications to be received is Friday, March 22. All applications will be reviewed by a selection committee which recommends to the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry exhibitors best suited to meet the goals of the building. The exhibitors chosen to participate in this years’ event will be notified on Monday, April 1.
For more information about the Big E, please visit http://www.thebige.com/. Please call (207)287-3494 or e-mail jessica.l.nixon@maine.gov to receive a copy of the complete Application Packet.
