FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, August 19, 2026  

MEDIA CONTACT: Candi Briley, (605) 353-7340 

Sensory Friendly Experience Returns to the South Dakota State Fair 

HURON, S.D. - The South Dakota State Fair is pleased to announce the return of the Sensory Friendly Experience on Wednesday, September 2 from 10AM-2PM, marking its second year of providing a welcoming experience for children and adults with sensory sensitivities. 

“Creating an environment where every fairgoer feels comfortable and included is important to us,” said Peggy Besch, South Dakota State Fair Manager. “Based on the feedback we received last year, we’ve adjusted the hours of the Sensory Friendly Experience to better accommodate individuals and families, ensuring they have an even greater opportunity to enjoy the fair in a way that works best for them.” 

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; and
• A specially modified carnival time. 

A special thanks to our Sensory Friendly Experience partners including Huron Regional Medical Center, Huron Area Center for Independence, True Reflections Counseling, Huron Public Library, Rita Linn Milestone Ranch, Prairie Paradise Farms, Gilchrist, Woehl, and Masterson Families, and some amazing volunteers.