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It's the most wonderful time of the year, and several of Dutchess County's most popular holiday attractions are hosting sensory-friendly events so that everyone can experience the magic of the season here in the heart of New York's Hudson Valley.
Sunday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m., at the Poughkeepsie Galleria
Santa Claus is coming to the Poughkeepsie Galleria! Children and families are invited to share their Christmas wishes with the "jolly old elf" and pose for pictures. If you would like to experience Santa's magic in a sensory-sensitive environment, book an appointment for the Sensory Santa event on Dec. 8. Click here to make the mandatory reservations.
The Galleria is equipped with ADA-certified entrances, parking and restrooms. Wheelchairs are available to rent in the security office, which is in the food court. Click here to learn more.
A visit to the Galleria is the perfect opportunity to grab a bite to eat and finish your holiday shopping. Click here to see a list of all the Galleria's stores, restaurants and attractions.
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Friday, Dec. 13, 6 p.m. at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House, Poughkeepsie
Dutchess County's ThinkDIFFERENTLY hosts a sensory-sensitive performance of the holiday classic, "The Nutcracker," by the New Paltz Ballet Theatre. This select performance will allow families with children on the autism spectrum or those with special needs a chance to enjoy an unforgettable theater experience without the noise and sometimes over-stimulating aspects of the show. The house lights will stay on, the sound will be kept low and the doors will remain open throughout the performance. Seating is limited for this free, one-hour show, and the well-trained Bardavon staff is attentive to the needs of its guests. Click here to complete the required registration before the deadline of Dec. 9.
The 944-seat Bardavon 1869 Opera House is the oldest continuously operating theater in New York State. Constructed in 1869 by James Collingwood, the Bardavon has hosted such prominent figures as Mark Twain, Andrew Carnegie and Franklin D. Roosevelt.
While maintaining its antique charm, the Bardavon has evolved into an accessible and inclusive facility with modern amenities, updated technology, and a staff that has adopted a forward-thinking approach to the theater-going experience. Accessible seating is situated on the theater’s lower level, and accessible restrooms are also available. There are accessible parking spaces located at the City of Poughkeepsie municipal lots on Cannon Street or in the parking garage at 38 Civic Center Plaza. If you need assistance, Bardavon event staff will be available at the theater’s marquee entranceway on Market Street.
Audience members with hearing loss can also experience performances to their fullest. For those without telecoil-equipped hearing aids or cochlear implant devices, portable hearing loop receivers with ear buds are available to rent from the Bardavon box office.
Launched in 2015, the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative seeks to create a supportive and welcoming environment for those living with special needs.
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Monday, Dec. 16, 5–9 p.m. at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck
Here is a festive holiday excursion the whole family will love! Load the kids into the car, be sure to pack some tasty snacks, and head to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds for a super-colossal drive-through holiday lights extravaganza. On Dec. 16, The Wonderland of Lights presents a sensory-friendly version of its show. During that night's production, the animation will be turned off and the lights will be static. Since the accompanying music is fed into each car individually, the volume can be raised or lowered, or it can be turned off altogether. Click here to purchase tickets.
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