The Big E Sets Attendance Record
WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — Summer-like temperatures over the weekend helped the Big E fair set an attendance record for the 17-day event.
The Eastern States Exposition which ended Sunday drew nearly 1.5 million visitors this year, its' 98th.
The exact amount was 1,498,605, breaking the previous attendance record of 1,481,917.
President Eugene Cassidy said he was "thrilled" with attendance this year.
The fair this year also set a single day attendance record when 170,612 passed through the gates on Sept. 20, breaking a record set in 1980.
The final day of the fair featured a six-horse hitch showdown, a visit from Democratic candidate for governor Martha Coakley and a celebration of the Special Olympics.
The fair features concerts, carnival rides, food, animal exhibits and goods from all six New England states.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
MORE LOCAL NEWS FROM CBS BOSTON
