Best Festivals in New England: A Guide to Celebrations That Will Leave You Spellbound

New England is the cradle of American history, with a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries. It is a hub for festivals and events that celebrate the region’s unique history, food, culture, and music. Whether you are a tourist or a local, there are festivals that will leave you spellbound. This article is a guide to the best festivals in New England that you cannot afford to miss.

Why Festivals Are Important in New England

From the high-energy music festivals to the more relaxed celebrations of food and history, festivals are an important part of the New England experience. They provide a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s heritage, as well as a chance to mingle with locals and tourists alike.

Most festivals in New England are steeped in tradition and are a testament to the region’s rich history. They also provide a chance to sample the region’s famous food and drink, from lobster rolls to craft beer.

Whether you come to New England for the fall foliage or the scenic coastlines, festivals are sure to be a highlight of your trip. Here are the best festivals in New England that you cannot afford to miss.

The Big E: The Largest Fair in New England 🎡

The Big E is the largest agricultural fair in the Northeast, attracting over a million visitors every year. The fair is held on the Eastern States Exposition grounds in Springfield, Massachusetts, and is a celebration of New England’s agriculture, industry, and culture.

The Big E features traditional fair attractions such as midway rides, carnival games, and food vendors, but the real draw is the agricultural exhibits and contests. Visitors can watch the judging of cattle, sheep, goats, and other livestock, as well as the baking and cooking competitions.

The fair runs for 17 days in late September and early October, and each day is devoted to a different New England state. This is a great opportunity to experience the diversity of the region and learn about its history and traditions.

When is The Big E?

The Big E is held annually in late September and early October. The fair runs for 17 days, from Friday to Sunday, and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

How do I get to The Big E?

The Big E is located in Springfield, Massachusetts, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. There is ample parking available on site, and shuttle buses run from nearby towns and cities.

Newport Jazz Festival: A Celebration of Jazz Music 🎶

The Newport Jazz Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious jazz festivals in the world. It was founded in 1954 by jazz impresario George Wein and has since hosted legendary jazz musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Ella Fitzgerald.

The festival is held annually at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island, and attracts jazz enthusiasts from around the globe. Over the years, it has expanded to include other genres of music such as blues, rock, and world music.

The Newport Jazz Festival is more than just a music festival; it is a celebration of the region’s rich maritime history. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of Newport Harbor while listening to some of the best jazz musicians in the world.

When is the Newport Jazz Festival?

The Newport Jazz Festival is held annually in August, usually on the second weekend of the month. The festival runs for three days, from Friday to Sunday.

How do I get to the Newport Jazz Festival?

The Newport Jazz Festival is held at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island. There is limited parking available on site, but shuttle buses run from nearby towns and cities.

Stowe Winter Carnival: A Winter Wonderland ❄️

The Stowe Winter Carnival is a celebration of winter sports and activities, held annually in the scenic town of Stowe, Vermont. The carnival features a variety of activities such as ice carving competitions, snow volleyball, and ice hockey tournaments.

The highlight of the carnival is the famous Stowe Derby, a cross-country ski race that attracts hundreds of skiers from around the region. The race starts at the top of Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont, and finishes in the picturesque town of Stowe.

The Stowe Winter Carnival is the perfect way to experience the beauty and excitement of winter in New England.

When is the Stowe Winter Carnival?

The Stowe Winter Carnival is held annually in late January or early February. The carnival runs for ten days, with events and activities held throughout the town of Stowe.

How do I get to the Stowe Winter Carnival?

The Stowe Winter Carnival is held in the town of Stowe, Vermont. There is ample parking available in the town, and shuttle buses run from nearby towns and cities.

The Brimfield Antique Show: A Treasure Hunter’s Paradise 💎

The Brimfield Antique Show is the largest outdoor antique show in the world, attracting dealers and collectors from around the globe. The show is held three times a year, in May, July, and September, and features over 5,000 dealers selling everything from vintage furniture to rare collectibles.

The show is held in the town of Brimfield, Massachusetts, and is a must-see for anyone interested in antiques and collectibles. Visitors can spend hours browsing the stalls and discovering hidden treasures.

When is the Brimfield Antique Show?

The Brimfield Antique Show is held three times a year, in May, July, and September. The show runs for six days, from Tuesday to Sunday, and is open from dawn to dusk.

How do I get to the Brimfield Antique Show?

The Brimfield Antique Show is held in the town of Brimfield, Massachusetts. There is ample parking available in the town, and shuttle buses run from nearby towns and cities.

Other Festivals to Check Out in New England

New England is a hub for festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some other festivals that you should check out:

1. Boston Calling Music Festival: A Celebration of Music 🎤

The Boston Calling Music Festival is a three-day event held annually in Boston, Massachusetts. The festival features some of the biggest names in music, as well as up-and-coming artists from around the world.

2. Nantucket Food and Wine Festival: A Celebration of Food 🍴

The Nantucket Food and Wine Festival is a five-day event held annually on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. The festival features some of the best chefs, winemakers, and sommeliers from around the world.

3. Vermont Cheese Festival: A Celebration of Cheese 🧀

The Vermont Cheese Festival is a one-day event held annually in Shelburne, Vermont. The festival features over 40 cheesemakers from around the region, as well as food and drink vendors.

4. Old Port Festival: A Celebration of Portland, Maine 🍻

The Old Port Festival is a one-day event held annually in Portland, Maine. The festival features live music, food and drink vendors, and local artisans.

5. Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival: A Celebration of Maritime Music 🎼

The Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival is a three-day event held annually in Mystic, Connecticut. The festival features traditional maritime music, as well as workshops and demonstrations.

6. AppleFest at Wachusett Mountain: A Celebration of Apples 🍎

AppleFest at Wachusett Mountain is a two-day event held annually in Princeton, Massachusetts. The festival features apple picking, hayrides, live music, and apple-themed food and drink vendors.

7. Chowderfest: A Celebration of Chowder 🍲

Chowderfest is a one-day event held annually in Newport, Rhode Island. The festival features local restaurants competing for the title of best chowder, as well as other food and drink vendors and live music.

8. Vermont Maple Festival: A Celebration of Maple Syrup 🍁

The Vermont Maple Festival is a three-day event held annually in St. Albans, Vermont. The festival features maple syrup tastings, sugarhouse tours, and demonstrations of traditional maple syrup making methods.

9. Maine Lobster Festival: A Celebration of Lobster 🦞

The Maine Lobster Festival is a five-day event held annually in Rockland, Maine. The festival features lobster dinners, live music, and a parade.

10. New Hampshire Highland Games: A Celebration of Scottish Culture 🏰

The New Hampshire Highland Games is a three-day event held annually in Lincoln, New Hampshire. The festival features traditional Scottish games such as caber tossing and hammer throwing, as well as Scottish music and dance.

11. Brattleboro Literary Festival: A Celebration of Literature 📚

The Brattle