Sensory Friendly Experience
The South Dakota State Fair is proud to host a sensory friendly experience on Wednesday, September 2, offering a welcoming and inclusive experience for children and adults with sensory sensitivities. This specially designed experience welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities who experience sensory processing challenges ensuring everyone has a chance to enjoy the fair in a calmer, supportive environment.
Sensory friendly experience hours are 10am - 2pm. Visitors can enjoy special programming and a calmer environment as they explore the fairgrounds in a way that best suits their needs.
With thousands of sights, sounds, and smells to take in, the fair can sometimes be overstimulating. That’s why, for a few hours, the South Dakota State Fair will turn down the lights and lower the volume—making it easier for all guests to enjoy the magic of the fair at their own pace.
During the sensory friendly experience, fairgoers can expect:
- Reduced noise and lights
- Gentle animal interactions in a quiet, controlled space
- A peaceful calming cottage to rest, reset, and recharge
- Interactive, hands-on sensory activities for all ages and abilities
- A fun and accessible scavenger hunt
- A specially modified carnival time
Momentum Refresh
A fully accessible Momentum Refresh mobile restroom and universal changing station will be available on the north side of the Expo Building during the Sensory Friendly Experience. This ADA-compliant unit includes a height-adjustable adult changing table, lift system, spacious design for caregivers, and professional staff to ensure a clean, safe, and dignified experience for all. Brought to you by the SD State Fair Foundation, Center for Independence, Red Wilk Construction, Wings Foundation, and the Gail and Delores Miller Foundation, an Affiliate Fund of the South Dakota Community Foundation.
10 AM – 4 PM
4-H Innovation Station
Explore a rotating lineup of interactive activities led by SDSU faculty, students, and community partners. From science and agriculture to creativity and problem?solving, each day offers fresh opportunities to discover, build, and explore.
10 AM – 2 PM
Huron Public Library Activities
Enjoy hands-on fun, a pop-up library, and DIY calming crafts! Activities include Make & Take Project, Sensory Bins and other sensory processing passive activities, and a calming corning.
10 AM – 2 PM
State Fair Visual Scavenger Hunt
Perfect for those who prefer to stay seated. Look around, spot fair sights, draw what made you smile—and earn a coupon for a free glass of milk from Midwest Dairy! Stop by the SD Rural Electric Tent or the Information Center to participate.
10 AM – 2 PM
Noah's Way Exotic Petting Zoo
Meet amazing animals like camels, zebras, goats, and lemurs! Located in the MIP Building on the north end of the fairgrounds.
10 AM – 2 PM
LEGO Play Zone
Let your creativity shine in the Arts & Education Building. Build, stack, and imagine in a relaxed space for all ages and abilities.
10 AM –2 PM
Meet a Gentle Horse
Spend time with a calm, friendly horse from Rita Linn Milestone Ranch! Participants can gently pet, brush, and learn about horse care. Located in the southwest end of the Hippodrome.
10 AM – 12 PM
Cuddle a Bunny
Gentle bunnies, soft cuddles, and a peaceful space—perfect for a quiet connection with these furry friends. Brought to you by the Gilchrist, Woehl, and Masterson Families.
10 AM – 12 PM
Get to Know a Goat!
Say hello to a goat. Gently pet and learn fun facts about goats from the people who take care of them every day! In the Day Sponsor Tent near Horizons Hall. Brought to you by Prairie Paradise Farms.
10 AM – 11 AM and 1 PM – 2 PM
Playtime with Loomis
Join Ashley Lindgren, MSW, CSW-PIP, RPT, QMHP and Loomis the therapy dog for a fun and calming sensory-friendly experience! Participants can enjoy coloring, blowing bubbles, and listening to stories while spending time with Loomis. These gentle, engaging activities encourage creativity, relaxation, social interaction, and positive connections in a welcoming and supportive environment. Located in Horticulture Park.
10 AM
Delta Dental/Educational Activity
Located in the Arts & Education Building
10 AM – throughout the afternoon
Stock Dog Clinic
Watch skilled working dogs in action as they guide livestock through gentle commands and teamwork! The Stock Dog Clinic offers a calm, educational demonstration that highlights the bond between dog and handler. Located in the Hippodrome.
11 AM – 12:30 PM
Carnival Fun – Sensory Style
Enjoy select carnival rides with no flashing lights, no loud music, and slower speeds—just fun at your pace!
All Day
FFA Ag Adventure Center
Get hands-on with farming and food fun! Explore farm life through interactive exhibits and live demos.
All Day
Critter Crate – Game, Fish & Parks Display
Get hands-on with nature! The Critter Crate features a fascinating collection of South Dakota animal furs, skulls, and other natural items to bring outdoors to your group. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, this interactive experience lets participants touch, observe, and learn about the unique wildlife that calls South Dakota home. It's a great way to explore nature— right from your classroom or community space!
All Day
Fish Splash
Dive into fun with Fish Splash! This hands-on sensory water table lets kids explore an underwater world filled with colorful toy fish, smooth stones, and aquatic plants. As they scoop, splash, and discover, children will engage their senses and learn about fish habitats and aquatic life. Perfect for young explorers and curious minds who love to get their hands wet!
All Day
State Fair Outdoor Mural
Help color a giant mural of fair scenes! Located in front of the Horticulture Building. A great way to make your mark!
All Day
Calming Cottage
Need a break? Our 10’ x 10’ sensory-friendly cottage includes:
- Air conditioning
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Rocking chair
- Fidgets & coloring sheets
- Weighted blanket
Located on the south side of the Horticulture Building (Flag Ave).
Bonus: South Dakota’s Largest Classroom
You're welcome to attend special programs like:
- Steve Gryb – The Pied Piper of Percussion - on the Freedom Stage!
- Elephant Encounters – North Cotton King Avenue (close to 3rd Street)
Note: These may be louder and more crowded.
Important Notes:
- The National Anthem will play at 9:45 AM over the loudspeaker.
- South Dakota’s Largest Classroom also takes place on Wednesday so some areas may be busier than others depending on the time and activity.
- The carnival returns to full lights & sounds at 3 PM.
- Bring your own noise-canceling headphones if you have them.
- Handicap parking available at Gate 6 for $7.
A Big THANK YOU To:
Huron Regional Medical Center • Huron Area Center for Independence • True Reflections Counseling • Disability Rights SD • Open Door Consulting • Huron Public Library • moveU • Amazing Volunteers!
Let’s make fair magic for everyone—calmer, kinder, and full of fun!
For more information, call the State Fair Office at 605.353.7340.
Thanks to Huron Regional Medical Center for sponsoring!