The Ozark Empire Fair, which opens Thursday, July 30, at the fairgrounds at 3001 N. Grant Ave. in Springfield, will offer a sensory-friendly experience from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3, giving individuals of all ages and abilities an opportunity to enjoy the fair in a quieter environment.
The event is designed to reduce potentially overwhelming sights and sounds, according to a community announcement. Fair organizers and Wade Shows will limit several sensory triggers during the designated hours to create a more comfortable experience for guests who may have special sensory needs.
Visitors can ride attractions in the family carnival without flashing lights or music, and public address announcements will be paused during the event period. Organizers
also said in the announcement that the earlier time slot is expected to draw smaller crowds than later hours.
Guests who need a break during the event can use indoor spaces at the Wilson Logistics Arena, which offers air conditioning, seating and restrooms. The East Hall of the E-Plex will also be available as a quieter indoor option featuring Life and Arts displays.
Admission and tickets
No advance registration is required to participate in the sensory-friendly hours.
The event coincides with the fair's $3 Day promotion. Admission is $3 per person, parking is $3 per vehicle, several food items will be available for $3, and carnival rides will cost $3 per ride. Tax may still apply to some purchases, according to the announcement.
Guests may pay admission at Gate 1, Gate 3, Gate 5 or Gate 10 upon arrival.
What to bring
Organizers encourage attendees who are sensitive to noise to consider bringing noise-canceling headphones, as some sounds may still be present despite efforts to reduce sensory stimulation.
Guests are also encouraged to prepare for summer weather by wearing sunscreen and a hat and staying hydrated. Water fountains are available in the E-Plex and the Wilson Logistics Arena.
Additional information about the fair, which runs through Aug. 8, is available at ozarkempirefair.com.
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This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Ozark Empire Fair offers quieter sensory-friendly hours Aug. 3
