Quiet Barn and Ride Time at Jackson County Fair Welcomes Special Needs Visitors
The Jackson County Fair in Brownstown, Indiana, recently opened its doors to special needs visitors for a day of fun and excitement. This annual event, now in its fourth year for quiet barn time and sixth year for quiet ride time, aims to provide a welcoming and accepting environment for individuals with special needs to enjoy the fairgrounds.
The morning started with quiet barn time, where Jackson County 4-H’ers brought a variety of animals to Show Arena 2. Goats, horses, poultry, sheep, pigs, and rabbits were on display for individuals to see up close and touch. The event provided a unique opportunity for children and adults to interact with animals in a calm and controlled environment.
Later in the afternoon, the fairgrounds opened for quiet ride time. The Jackson County Fair Association, in partnership with Poor Jack Amusements, offered select rides free of charge for special needs visitors. Despite the sweltering heat reaching nearly 100 degrees, attendees embraced the opportunity to enjoy the rides and have a memorable day.
Andrea Fernandez, a parent from Seymour, brought her daughter Natalia and son Patricio to both the morning barn time and afternoon ride time. Natalia had a great time with the animals in the morning, while Patricio enthusiastically rode from one attraction to another in the afternoon. Fernandez appreciated the inclusive and relaxing environment provided for her daughter, emphasizing the importance of organizations like The Arc of Jackson County in supporting individuals with special needs.
Melanie O’Neal, the executive director of The Arc of Jackson County, expressed delight at seeing all the children and adults having a fantastic time. She emphasized that quiet ride time allowed children like Patricio to enjoy the rides without the overwhelming crowds typically seen during regular fair days. O’Neal praised the event for providing a safe and appropriate environment for individuals with special needs to have fun.
For Chelsea Brooks from Bedford, the primary motivation to attend quiet ride time was the opportunity for her son, Waylin Tolliver, to experience rides such as roller coasters and Ferris wheels. Due to his special needs, waiting in long lines is often a challenge. Brooks expressed her gratitude for this event, as it allows her son to enjoy experiences that would otherwise be difficult for him. She described the day as an opportunity to focus on Waylin’s enjoyment, providing him with experiences typical children enjoy on a regular basis.
Emma Tormoehlen, a 16-year-old 4-H member, showcased her pig during quiet barn time. She enjoyed interacting with attendees and witnessing their joy in a comfortable setting. Tormoehlen mentioned that quiet barn time allowed people who are sensitive to noise to experience the same things in a more controlled environment. She highlighted the increasing turnout each year and the positive impact the event has on the participants.
To ensure the well-being of attendees on a scorching day, the fair board partnered with the Immanuel Lutheran Church food stand to provide free water vouchers. Staying cool and hydrated was crucial for everyone’s enjoyment during quiet barn and ride times.
The Jackson County Fair’s commitment to inclusivity and providing special needs visitors with a memorable experience has garnered praise from parents, attendees, and community members alike. The positive impact of the event’s relaxed and accepting atmosphere was evident in the smiles and expressions of excitement throughout the day. As quiet barn and ride time continues to grow each year, the Jackson County Fair remains dedicated to creating an enjoyable environment for all attendees.
