The New England Center is one of the main buildings at the Big E fair in West Springfield, Massachusetts. It is also a non-competitive public speaking/communications opportunity! The New England Center features artwork and crafts, as well as 4-H exhibitors from all New England states!
Note: 4-H members must be nine (9) or older to participate in the Big E New England Center.
How Does It Work?
Each state is given a select day(s) during which its 4-H members can engage with fair visitors. The New England Center offers two ways of engaging with fairgoers:
- 4-H members can perform music, theater, dance, etc. on the New England Center stage in front of a transient crowd of fairgoers
- 4-H members can run booths (referred to as “pods”) in which they run an interactive activity. Activities might include button-making, face-painting, poetry-writing, etc. 4-H members are free to choose any activity that interests them, so long as it actively engages fairgoers.
The New England Center is typically a two-day program. 4-H members and adult chaperones will sleep on the Big E fairgrounds in the Moses Dormitory. There is no expense for the dormitory or daily meals. All 4-H New England Center participants are also invited to march in the Big E parade!
How Do I Sign Up?
Simply email cdicenzo@uri.edu. The deadline to register is August 25. Pod activities must also be confirmed with URI 4-H Staff by this deadline.