2 Can’t-Miss Massachusetts September Events

Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

This month, as we transition from summer to fall — a time, seemingly, when everything tends to move just a little faster — here on MassFinds, we wanted to feature two events that are worth looking forward to. In fact, these are events that you won’t want to miss.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional, family-fun New England experience, or a day/night spent with friends, this month’s MassFinds “Find(s) of the Month” encapsulate everything New England and everything Massachusetts, with a whole lot to eat — and try for the first time — see, and experience.
So, with out further ado, if you’re looking for a can’t-miss experience this month in Massachusetts, look to The Big E, and the Bourne Scallop Festival, where local food, sights, sounds and entertainment combine to satisfy the likes of anyone and everyone.
The Big E: September 13 – 29 in West Springfield, MA
As “New England’s Great State Fair,” The Big E is the largest agricultural event on the east coast, and notably represents each New England state with a life-size replica of their respective state house, stretching across 17 days full of an abundance of fun. And by an abundance of fun, consider this: where else can you find vintage cars, thrill rides, farm animal shows, cupcake contests and a mechanical man all in the same place?
Before we go any further, for a more detailed idea of what’s offered during “New England’s Biggest Celebration,” click here to see an in-depth Big E event flyer. Additionally, you can find all things pertaining to tickets, entertainment, and a complete schedule at www.thebige.com.

As far as this year’s celebration goes, we thought you might be interested in knowing about what’s new. So, here’s a quick roundup of what to expect:

New Treats! You’ll want to head to The Big E hungry. In addition to the adventurous Craz-E Burger, you can now try the Craz-E Breakfast Sandwich (two eggs on a glazed donut with a choice of sausage, bacon, or both); the Chocolate Baconana (a frozen banana on a stick, dipped in chocolate and rolled in bacon); “Three Pigs in a Bun” (pork sausage, pulled pork, and bacon); or the Deep-Fried Strawberry Shortcake!
A Wine & Cheese Barn! New this year, the Wine & Cheese barn offers a peaceful journey through a New England vineyard, where you can sample and purchase delicious wines and high quality cheeses.
Racing Pigs! The Swifty Swine Racing Pigs will feature a roundup of adorable piglets as they chase after a Oreo cookie around a racetrack. Races will take place daily under the Mallary Rotunda.
The Beach Boys! On September 29th at 7:30 p.m. at the xfinity arena, The Beach Boys will perform for free (on a first-come, first-serve basis) with premium seating available.
For a full list of Big E vendors, directions and tickets, just click here, here and here. To keep up with all things Big E, check them out on Facebook.
Bourne Scallop Festival: September 20 – 22 in Bourne, MA
After a few local fishermen got together along Cape Cod’s Buzzards Bay Park 44 years ago for a scallop festival, who would have ever anticipated that it would grow to welcome over 50,000 people?

Bourne Scallop Festival via Facebook

Now, in its 44th year, during the third week of September, over the course of three days, Buzzards Bay Park will welcome thousands of people in celebration of family fun, and a famous, undeniably tasty scallop & herb roasted chicken dinner.

Scallop Dinner the Bourne Scallop Festival via Facebook

Each year, more than three tons of local scallops are trucked to the festival, where they’re deep-fried and paired with French fries and coleslaw.
A professional arts and crafts fair, put on by Castleberry Fairs and Festivals, offers New England crafts, as well as specialty foods and live music. A live entertainment stage will host a number of local musical groups with a range of styles. Rockwell Amusements will also be on hand, bringing their one-of-a-kind Fun Zone.

You can find ticketing information on the Bourne Scallop Festival here, along with driving directions and nearby accommodations here and here. For the latest info on the Scallop Fest, you can keep in touch through Facebook.
For a complete listing of events in Massachusetts during September, visit www.massvacation.com.

TOPICS: Cape & Islands, Family Fun, Food, Things to Do, Western MA