For some people, the sights, sounds and crowds of the Erie County Fair can be overwhelming.
That's why the Fair is setting aside a portion of Thursday for a different experience.
Sensory Day, is from 11am - 2pm, August 13, giving fairgoers an opportunity to enjoy the midway and other attractions in a quieter, more comfortable setting.
"As an example, we're going to walk around and ask the midway to turn off all of the background noise and flashing lights. We're going to ask the barkers to be quieter. We're going to ask anyone who has music running in the background of their booths to turn it down to lower the stimulation level," said Todd Vaarwerk with the American Disabilities Association Compliance team at the fair.
The day is designed for people with sensory sensativities, including those who may have autism or other conditions that can make loud noises, bright lights and large crowds difficult.
"The fair has been offering this experince for about five years now. We've seen it translate to people giving the fair a try, when they thought they wouldn't be able to navigate it otherwise."
Vaarwerk said they are seeing people come back for a second and third year, creating the same fair tradition as other families in Western New York.
The Erie County Fair also offers a Sensory Room, a quieter place for fairgoers, throughout the 12 day event.
The crowds, loud sounds and flashing lights can be too much for some"
The crowds, loud sounds and flashing lights can be too much for some"
