Inclusive Events and Passes

From sensory-sensitive performances to sporting events, Dutchess County provides many opportunities for individuals of all abilities to enjoy the Hudson Valley's arts and culture, outdoor and historic attractions.

Ongoing

The America the Beautiful - National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Access Pass allows U.S. citizens or permanent residents with long-term disabilities a free lifetime pass to see national sites including the Vanderbilt Mansion and Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt. For New York State (NYS) residents with disabilities, The Access Pass gives free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites and recreational facilities operated by the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. 

The Center for Performing Arts and the Bardavon 1869 Opera House features an array of programming that makes it accessible and inclusive for theatergoers of all ages and abilities.

Spring

Read more about spring events including a Sensory-Friendly Visit with the Easter Bunny, ThinkDIFFERENTLY Sensory-Sensitive Movie Event and Easter Egg Hunts for All here.

April 27, 2024: Hudson Valley Walk for Autism at James Baird Park, Pleasant Valley
Resources, entertainment, vendors, food trucks and more at the annual walk to raise awareness for Autism.

Summer

June 8, 2024: Get Outdoors and Get Together Day celebrates the accessible recreational opportunities available at New York State parks and outdoor sites that people with and without disabilities can enjoy together. This day is in partnership with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Department of Veterans' Services. 2024 Dutchess County Locations: Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center; Norrie Point Environmental Education Center

July 19, 2024: Sensory Sensitive Disney Sing-Along at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House in Poughkeepsie. Details to be announced. Free event but reservations are required.

August 3 & 4, 2024: D3: Disability Dream & Do Baseball Camp (Hudson Valley D3Day) at Heritage Financial Park (formerly Dutchess Stadium), Wappingers Falls
At the home of the Hudson Valley Renegades, the camp provides individuals with functional limitations the opportunity to practice baseball with minor-league athletes. For more information on the event, click here.

August 20-25, 2024: Dutchess County Fair
ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday at the fair returns on August 22. For a look back at ThinkDIFFERENTLY features in 2023, click here. This day includes sensory-sensitive hours, an early opening in advance of crowds with no flashing lights or loud music on the midway so people can enjoy activities & animals. The fair also provides accessible parking, wheelchair rentals, and additional mobility transportation within the fair. For more accessible features, click here.

September 8, 2024: Looking at Nature: Master Naturalist’s Tour for Varied Mobility Levels
Explore Innisfree with Adrienne Popko, to date, Cornell’s only certified New York Master Naturalist of Distinction. Look at and discuss native plants and their importance in the landscape including which pollinators rely on them; invasive plants and ways to combat them; birds and various insects; and more. Adrienne uses a walker with wheels. This tour (the route and parking location) is designed for individuals with full and limited mobility. Purchase tickets here.

Fall

October 1, 2024: Sensory Sensitive Performance of The Boy Who Could Sing Pictures at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House in Poughkeepsie. Details to be announced. Free event but reservations are required.

Read more about Halloween events and activities including sensory-friendly shows and movies here.

Winter

December 13, 2024: Sensory Sensitive Performance of The Nutcracker at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House in Poughkeepsie. Details to be announced. Free event but reservations are required.

TBD: Santa’s Workshop at the Poughkeepsie Galleria Mall. ASL Interpreters will be on hand to allow those who communicate with sign language to interact with Santa. December weekends.

Please check the event organizer's website and social media accounts for the latest updates. Click here to see a complete list of events happening throughout Dutchess and feel free to call (845) 463-4000 if you have questions.