Thankfully, we’ve come a long way recognizing that special needs children and adults have unfavorable reactions to lights, sounds and noise.

The West End Fairgrounds held its 5th annual sensory day for two hours on Tuesday.

Fair president Dale “Peanut” Greenzweig noted that 400 people attended the first year and that it is growing every year.

“It is designed for people with special needs who can come out and enjoy the fair without noise, lights, and the hustle and bustle, so we have a day without all of that,” Greenzweig said.

Wendy Smith has worked for Access Services in East Stroudsburg for nine years and brought a group of special needs adults to the fair. Among the fair goers with her were Janet Castero who loves deep fried Oreos and Melissa Jackson who enjoys the cheese fries.

All rides were free for this special day. Any vendors, and there were plenty, who chose to be open, also served their food at no cost. Lemonade, fries and of course deep fried Oreos were available.

Seth Sheckler of Bowmanstown, enjoyed putting at the mini golf game. After a few tries he hit the ball.

Grace Gouldsboro came with a group from Pocono Lake Bible Group noting, “It’s fun, the kids enjoy trying the new sensory toys that are given out at the stands.”

This included fidget spinners and other tactile toys that are helpful to those with special needs.

Eight-year-old Jaxon Gower enjoyed the Scooby Doo train ride. His mother Stacy brings him every year. She noted that he entered exhibits in the craft fair and they will come back later to see how he does looking at them. Jaxon’s favorite part of the fair is the fun house and playing farmer for the day, a hands-on activity.

Everyone had a chance to meet some animals up close as 12-year-old Ayla Wernot was walking around with 1-year-old mini horse “Ghost” and Abby Strunk led 1-year -old mini horse “Gus.”

Gideon Smith and Robert Transue, both 12, followed with a shovel and bucket to keep the fairgrounds clean.

Emily Gallagher brought 3-year-old Joseph and Luke, 1, to the fair.

“We love everything. There’s something for every age group,” she said.

Fair Director Jen Rufo, one of many directors under the executive board, noted, “As part of the fair, we love sensory day. We’re able to see people enjoy the fair without light and sounds. It’s quieter and enjoyable.”