CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Massachusetts had a noticeably smaller presence at The Great American State Fair in Washington, DC, with officials and participants pointing to high costs as a major reason why the state did not fully participate.
Most states that opted out of the event said it was “prohibitively too expensive” to attend, leaving some exhibits, including Massachusetts, more sparsely represented.
Pennsylvania skipping Trump state fair celebration, joining Massachusetts
One Massachusetts participant said they chose to attend independently after the state did not send an official delegation. The individual said they felt it was important for Massachusetts to be represented, noting its historical significance as one of the original 13 colonies.
To showcase the state, the attendee brought products from western Massachusetts, including maple syrup from Shelburne Falls.
The event itself has drawn national attention, heavily promoted by the Trump Administration and kicked off with a presidential rally. In addition to exhibits, the fair featured a large-scale display, including a replica of a proposed triumphal arch planned for Washington…