Overview
September 17-20, 2026
West Springfield, Massachusetts
Regional Career & Leadership Development Events
The Big E Regional FFA Career and Leadership Development Events provide Virginia FFA members the opportunity to compete against top teams and individuals from across the eastern United States while representing the Commonwealth on a regional stage.
In addition to competition, participants connect with FFA members from throughout the region and experience one of the largest fairs in the nation.
Travel & Lodging
Hotel Information
Fairfield Inn & Suites Springfield/Enfield
1 Bright Meadow Blvd
Enfield, CT 06082
Virginia FFA Housing Block
Virginia FFA coordinates a housing block for participating chapters. Advisors determine room assignments and are encouraged to work with other chapters to maximize occupancy and minimize costs.
Transportation
Virginia FFA Bus
Bus transportation is sponsored by the Virginia FFA Foundation. The state-coordinated trip will depart Virginia on September 17 and return on September 20.
Personal Vehicle
Chapters may choose to drive. Parking fees and related transportation costs are the responsibility of the local chapter.
Air Travel
Airport transportation, rental vehicles, and transfers are the responsibility of the local chapter.
Travel Together
Virginia FFA coordinates transportation and lodging to help reduce costs while allowing members to build friendships with fellow FFA members from across the Commonwealth.
Costs
2026 pricing information will be posted once finalized.
Lodging and transportation costs will be announced when available.
Registration
Update Chapter Roster
Ensure all participants are included on your 2026-2027 FFA membership roster.
State Registration
Complete the housing and transportation registration by the deadline - more information to come.
Big E Waiver and Forms
- Complete the contest registration through Judging Card. Virginia FFA covers your registration cost.
- Complete required Big E forms and participant waiver. Click here for more information.
Virginia FFA Permission Form
Complete and bring with you, permission forms for all students and adults attending the event.
Resources
The Big E Website
Official information regarding The Big E and Eastern States Exposition.
Visit Website
Schedule of Events
The full contest schedule is posted to the Big E website.
Visit Website
Rules & Regulations
Specific contest rules for the Big E can be found at the bottom of the page linked below.
Visit Website
Virginia FFA Forms
Be sure the Virginia FFA Permission Form/Waiver is completed and with you at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend?
Eligible Virginia FFA members selected through the state qualification process.
How are bus seats assigned?
Bus seating is limited and will be coordinated based on available capacity and participation.
Can chapters provide their own transportation?
Yes. Chapters may travel independently and are responsible for any associated transportation and parking costs.
When will costs be available?
Pricing information will be posted once lodging, transportation, and registration expenses have been finalized.