It may sound amazing, but despite being 180 years old, the Dutchess County Fair is still way ahead of its time!
Consider this:
The Dutchess County Fair was among the first county fairs in the country to offer sensory-friendly accommodations to its guests with disabilities and/or sensory sensitivities when it hosted its inaugural “ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday” event in 2016. In 2026, that event is still going strong and is one of the many reasons the Fair is one of the biggest and most inclusive in America year after year.
Of course, everyone enjoys the Fair in their own way and at their own pace, and the bright lights, loud noises and big crowds often make it difficult for someone with sensory sensitivities to relax and have fun. This year’s Fair will once again include attractions and amenities to help those of all abilities and their families make the most of their Fair experiences.
The Fair will open its gates at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 — one hour earlier than usual — for individuals with disabilities and their families so they can enjoy the exhibits and attractions, including the animal barns on Livestock Hill and the Dutchess County 4-H Exhibit Hall, ahead of the crowds. Although not every attraction will be open at that time, the soft opening provides families with a chance to ease into their day at the Fair. Be sure to enter through the main gate. To see a map of the Fairgrounds, click here.
Also on Thursday, select rides on the Powers Great American Midway will open at 9:30 a.m. and remain sensory friendly until noon. Flashing lights and loud noises will be lowered and/or turned off all morning so those with sensory sensitivities can enjoy the rides in a more subdued environment. The early opening means fewer people, shorter lines and less anxiety. To purchase tickets, click here.
The Dutchess County Fair was the first in New York State, and one of the first in the country, to offer a sensory-friendly day to fairgoers.
The ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative was started by former Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro in 2015 to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to individuals with special needs. For a Q and A on ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday with Molinaro and President and CEO of the Dutchess County Agricultural Society Andy Imperati, click here.
Related: There is Fun for Everyone at the Dutchess County Fair
ThinkDIFFERENTLY will also host a Quiet Space, complete with tables and chairs, behind the ThinkDIFFERENTLY tent, to provide a calm place away from the hustle and bustle of the Fair.
Click here to reach out to the wonderful team at ThinkDIFFERENTLY for more information.
The staff members at the Fairgrounds pride themselves on creating events that are enjoyable and accessible for everyone. The entrances and aisles at the Fair are navigable for guests in wheelchairs, as are many of the attractions. The Fair staff is not permitted to assist in transporting persons, but they will provide direction to the extent that they are able. Accommodations have been made on the grounds, in buildings, in the grandstand and in restrooms to make them accessible as well.
Accessible parking is available in designated areas. Be sure to have your state-issued parking permit visible. Parking attendants will be on duty to help if needed. Trolleys will patrol the accessible parking area and will transport people with mobility impairments to the Fair entrance free of charge.
Carts, wheelchairs, wagons and strollers will all be available to rent at the Fairgrounds. For details, click here.
See you at the Fair!
Related: Dutchess County Welcomes Visitors of All Abilities
The Anderson Center posted a list of tips for autistic and neurodivergent fairgoers to help make the Dutchess County Fair enjoyable for all. See the complete list pictured below.
• Be proactive in helping your child prepare for the event
• Be a role model; it is acceptable to share your feelings (excited, overwhelmed, etc.)
• Consider when you will attend the event, such as a time where the fair may be less busy, or Thursday from 9:30 a.m.–12 p.m. during ThinkDifferently Sensory hours
• Plan ahead by downloading the Dutchess County Fair app
• Look at the fair map and activity/show schedule, consider the interests of the individual and family and create an “itinerary.”
• Purchase tickets in advance to avoid waiting on lines
Main photo courtesy of Dutchess County Government.
