State Fair of Texas tones down the sights and sounds for sensory-friendly mornings

The State Fair of Texas is full of tastes, smells, rides, sights and plenty of sounds. But it can be too much for some people.

This year the fair will have special times for a “toned down” and “calmer experience.” The Sensory Friendly Mornings are every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The usual sights and sounds of the Midway are turned off, Big Tex’s voice is quieter and the carnies won’t yell at you to “step right up.”

“We will turn down the sights and sounds of the fair in several places including the Midway in order for people to maybe enjoy and get to ride rides and play games and then go to some other activities around the grounds that might be a little bit more sensory-friendly for them... by us turning down the music, turning down the lights and making it just an overall better experience,” said Carissa Condoianis, a spokeswoman for the fair.

There are also other places to enjoy a quieter experience at the fair with designated quiet zones for anyone, including those with autism or perhaps suffering from a migraine.

The State Fair of Texas runs through Oct. 21.