Otsego Fair Hosting
Sensory-Friendly Day
To ‘Think Differently’
MORRIS – Lisa Jones, manager, Otsego County Fair, wants to make sure everyone can enjoy the fun.
“During our annual meeting in Rochester, I heard about a fair that turned off their lights and sounds for people who have sensory sensitivities, and I knew we had to do it here,” she said. “I immediately brought it back to our board, and they agreed.”
On Wednesday, July 31, the fair will host their first “Think Differently Day,” where, from noon – 2 p.m., the midway will refrain from using music and sound, lights and overhead sound – including announcements – to make the fair more accessible to people with sensory sensitivities.
“I think this is a really cool thing that we’re able to do,” said Jones.
The Fair will also have a special sensory tent set up, with touch tables and a table from Pathfinder Village. They will also have a “calm down” space where visitors who might be overwhelmed can take a few minutes to rest.
$10 unlimited ride wristbands will be available on the midway, and staff members will be wearing special “Think Differently” shirts to better identify them to assist guests.
