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ALLENTOWN, Pa. \u2014 Allentown Fair is all about keeping people excited on the midway for its 173rd year when it kicks off Aug. 27.<\/p>\n
But this year, the fair, which runs Aug. 27-Sept. 1, will take measures to make sure those who need a sensory-aware and accessible environment are welcomed, too.<\/p>\n
The fair announced it will hold its first Inclusive Day on Friday, Aug. 29 to welcoming guests of all abilities “to enjoy a few hours of fun, entertainment and community connection in a sensory-aware and accessible environment.”<\/p>\n
\n\n“This dedicated time is thoughtfully designed for individuals with disabilities and their families to experience the fair in a more comfortable, accessible and welcoming environment.”<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Allentown Fair in a release<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
The midway will be “sensory friendly” from 2-4 p.m. and is inviting individuals, families and organizations who champion inclusion to be part of the day.<\/p>\n
A news release from the fair said it worked with midway company Powers & Thomas Midway Entertainment “to create a more comfortable and accommodating atmosphere” during that time.<\/p>\n
“Inclusive Day reflects the fair\u2019s ongoing commitment to making its experience welcoming for everyone,” the fair said in a release. <\/p>\n
“This dedicated time is thoughtfully designed for individuals with disabilities and their families to experience the fair in a more comfortable, accessible and welcoming environment.<\/p>\n
“The Allentown Fair is committed to celebrating diversity, promoting accessibility, and ensuring a fun and inclusive atmosphere for all.”<\/p>\n
Details of Inclusive Day<\/h2>\n
During the special hours midway music will be turned off or lowered, and rides with strobe or flashing lights will have those effects minimized when possible. <\/p>\n
Ride operators will offer extra time and assistance for boarding and exiting rides. Caregivers or guardians are welcome to accompany riders when needed. <\/p>\n
While rides may not be wheelchair accessible, staff will make every effort to accommodate guests in a safe and supportive manner.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n\n\u201cInclusive Day is about more than accessibility \u2014 it\u2019s about belonging. We are proud to work with Powers & Thomas to ensure that everyone has the chance to create memories at the fair.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Allentown Fair Marketing and Entertainment Manager Jessica Ciecwisz<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
The fair will offer free admission to all from noon-2 p.m. Aug. 29.<\/p>\n
Guests taking part in the Sensory Friends Midway Hours will receive a designated wristband, granting them priority access from 2-4 p.m.<\/p>\n
That will allow them “a more comfortable and less stimulating experience as they transition through ride lines,” the fair said.<\/p>\n
\u201cInclusive Day is about more than accessibility \u2014 it\u2019s about belonging,\u201d fair Marketing and Entertainment Manager Jessica Ciecwisz said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are proud to work with Powers & Thomas to ensure that everyone has the chance to create memories at the fair.\u201d<\/p>\n
Musikfest, the Bethlehem music festival that draws 1 million patrons each year, has for five years offered “inclusion zones” for people of all abilities to use.<\/p>\n
The zones offer adults and children with additional needs a break or some free therapeutic interventions such as a weighted blanket or noise-canceling headphones.<\/p>\n
For more information about Inclusive Day and accessibility services at the Fair, email Fair@AllentownFair.org.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n