ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Allentown Fair is all about keeping people excited on the midway for its 173rd year when it kicks off Aug. 27.
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.
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."
"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."Allentown Fair in a release
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.
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.
"Inclusive Day reflects the fair’s ongoing commitment to making its experience welcoming for everyone," the fair said in a release.
"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.
"The Allentown Fair is committed to celebrating diversity, promoting accessibility, and ensuring a fun and inclusive atmosphere for all."
Details of Inclusive Day
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.
Ride operators will offer extra time and assistance for boarding and exiting rides. Caregivers or guardians are welcome to accompany riders when needed.
While rides may not be wheelchair accessible, staff will make every effort to accommodate guests in a safe and supportive manner.
“Inclusive Day is about more than accessibility — it’s about belonging. We are proud to work with Powers & Thomas to ensure that everyone has the chance to create memories at the fair.”Allentown Fair Marketing and Entertainment Manager Jessica Ciecwisz
The fair will offer free admission to all from noon-2 p.m. Aug. 29.
Guests taking part in the Sensory Friends Midway Hours will receive a designated wristband, granting them priority access from 2-4 p.m.
That will allow them "a more comfortable and less stimulating experience as they transition through ride lines," the fair said.
“Inclusive Day is about more than accessibility — it’s about belonging,” fair Marketing and Entertainment Manager Jessica Ciecwisz said.
“We are proud to work with Powers & Thomas to ensure that everyone has the chance to create memories at the fair.”
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.
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.
For more information about Inclusive Day and accessibility services at the Fair, email Fair@AllentownFair.org.
