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Big Top Rentals – Exeter, PA
Founded in 1983 by Mark and Susan Farrell with just one tent, Big Top Rentals began as a small, family-run business with big ambitions. A few years later, a contract with Carlisle Fairgrounds rapidly expanded their inventory and operations. After dedicating over 15 years to that partnership, Mark made the decision to refocus efforts locally—bringing the business back to its roots in NEPA.
Around that time, their son Mark Farrell began stepping into a larger role. “I was about 16 when I started taking on more responsibility,” says Mark, now Operations Manager. “We began focusing on weddings, larger events, and corporate outings.” In recent years, the company has grown again, adding specialty tents—some of which are unique in the country—and building a highly efficient, dedicated team.
A Full-Service Event Experience
Tents are the heart of Big Top Rentals’ offerings, ranging from compact 10×10 setups to massive 60×300 structures. Their most popular option is the 40′ wide frame tent, which starts at 40×45 and expands in 15′ increments.
But the services don’t stop there. “Besides the tents, we offer various other products from standard rectangles and rounds to hand-built farm tables and bars that we design and build in-house,” says Mark. The company also provides four styles of chairs, dance floors in various color patterns, staging, lighting packages, heaters, and fans—making them a true one-stop shop for events of all sizes.
Community at the Core
West Pittston isn’t just where the business started—it’s home. “Our company was born in West Pittston, the same town we’ve lived in for 46 years. We not only started our business here but also our family, so being a part of the local community as much as we can is something we’re proud of,” says Mark.
Their community involvement runs deep, from sponsoring Little League teams and high school clubs to supporting local charities and fundraisers. One of their most meaningful contributions is donating 100% of the tents, tables, and chairs for the West Pittston Cherry Blossom Festival—a tradition that began after the flood, when the Farrells wanted to help the festival rebuild and continue benefiting the community.
What Sets Big Top Rentals Apart
“We have the largest clear top selection in NEPA and beyond,” says Mark. Among their standout offerings is the LUMA tent, which features a translucent section that allows natural light to filter through without compromising shade—an innovation only two other companies in the U.S. currently offer.
In addition to their inventory, Big Top Rentals prides itself on being a reliable partner. “We are a one stop shop usually what you need we have, and if we don’t we work with multiple vendors in the area that balance us out and offer what we do not,” Mark explains.
Connect With Big Top Rentals!
Interested in working with Big Top Rentals for your next event? You can connect with them through their social media outlets on Facebook, Instagram, or visit their website to learn more at https://www.bigtoprent.com/.
Featured image (top) courtesy of Big Top Rentals, Exeter, PA.
