POUGHKEEPSIE … Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and Dutchess County Fairgrounds President Andy Imperati invite individuals and families with physical and developmental disabilities to enjoy “ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday” at the Dutchess County Fair on Thursday, Aug. 27. The special day offers a quieter, more relaxed Fair experience with early admission, sensory-friendly carnival hours and activities designed to help everyone enjoy one of Dutchess County's favorite summer traditions. Inclusive programming and accessibility features will also be available throughout Fair week.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “The Dutchess County Fair is a special tradition where families and friends come together, and everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy it. ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday’ creates a welcoming space where guests of all abilities can experience the Fair in a way that feels comfortable for them. We thank the Dutchess County Agricultural Society for their continued partnership in making the Fair more inclusive, and we can't wait to welcome families from across our community.”
On “ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday,” individuals with physical and developmental disabilities and their families are invited to enter the Fair beginning at 9 a.m., one hour before the general public. The early opening provides extra time to visit Livestock Hill, the Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County 4H Exhibit Hall and other areas before the Fair becomes busier, making it easier for guests to explore in a calm, comfortable setting.
The Powers Great American Midway will open select rides at 9:30 a.m., with sensory-friendly hours continuing until noon. During that time, flashing lights, music and other ride sounds will be reduced or turned off to create a more enjoyable experience for guests with sensory sensitivities. The earlier opening also means shorter lines and more room to enjoy the rides.
Special events on “ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday” include the Dutchess County Fair’s ThinkDIFFERENTLY Horse Showcase at noon in the Horse Show Arena. Throughout the week, fairgoers can also explore ThinkDIFFERENTLY exhibits featuring artwork, horticulture and other projects created by individuals with disabilities, including the popular GrowDIFFERENTLY recycled garden art display in the Horticulture Building.
The Dutchess County Department of Mental Health and the County’s ThinkDIFFERENTLY team invite families who need a quiet break during their visit can stop by their tent on Livestock Hill (No. 16 on map), which will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout the Fair. Visitors looking for sensory resources or assistance can also visit the Information Booth near the Fair souvenir stand.
Dutchess County Agricultural Society President Andy Imperati said, “‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday’ has become a special part of Fair week, and we're proud to continue working with Dutchess County to make the Fair a place where everyone feels welcome. We look forward to seeing families enjoy the rides, exhibits and traditions that make the Dutchess County Fair so special.”
The 2026 Dutchess County Fair runs Tuesday, Aug. 25 through Sunday, Aug. 30, with gates opening daily at 10 a.m. Children ages 11 and younger receive free admission. On “ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday,” guests taking advantage of the early opening should enter through the Fair’s main entrance at the Welcome Center, located near accessible parking.
Ticket information, accessibility details and a complete schedule of events is available at dutchessfair.com.
