In Kentucky, attending a local county fair is a tradition—drawing thousands of people for an experience like no other. For many, it’s the “Kentuckiest thing there ever was.” This year, the Kentucky State Fair celebrates its 120-year anniversary, which coincides with the 120 counties that proudly make up the commonwealth. 

For youth with special needs and sensory processing disorders, attending a county or state fair can be overwhelming. The Boone County 4-H Youth Development, part of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, saw a remarkable opportunity—helping special needs children and their families come together and comfortably enjoy a memorable 4-H county fair experience. 

Sensory Day, now known as Sunshine Day, launched. Now in its third year, special needs youth and their families were invited to enjoy a free day of fun carnival rides and food, games, face painting, Cloverville tours, pony rides, a livestock show and more at the Boone County Fairgrounds in Burlington, Kentucky. 

“It is a joy to witness these unique families, coming together to create happy fair time memories,” said Cathy Fellows, Boone County 4-H extension agent at Martin-Gatton CAFE. “Sunshine Day is a team effort, and we appreciate everyone’s contributions in making this a successful event each year.” 

The livestock show gave participants an opportunity to learn about different farm animals including rabbits, chickens, sheep, goats and more. Throughout the day, Kentucky 4-H volunteers helped facilitate the activities and worked closely with the special needs youth and families. 

“Events like Sunshine Day are awesome,” said Siona Callahan, Boone County 4-H Livestock Club member and event volunteer. “I too have special needs, so I see a younger version of myself when we are helping the special needs children have a memorable experience that’s comfortable for them. I love seeing them do normal things, which sometimes can be challenging if you have special or sensory needs.” 

For many children attending Sunshine Day, this is their first time interacting with an animal up close and participating in the typical county fair activities. The kids’ reactions were priceless to Rusty Wolf, Boone County 4-H extension agent at Martin-Gatton CAFE. 

“This event provides a comfortable space for special needs children to explore what county fairs offer,” Wolf said. “They don’t get to see this every day. When they do, their faces light up.” 

Sunshine Day 2024 was presented by the Boone County Cooperative Extension Service, Boone County 4-H and Homemakers Association, Boone County Fair Board, CONVA and Kissel Entertainment. Sponsors included Diamond G Ranch Pony Rides, Holy Donuts, S&L Funnel Cake and The Jones Family (in memory of Pat Jones).    

For more information on the Kentucky 4-H Youth Development program, visit https://4-h.ca.uky.edu or contact your local county extension office at extension.ca.uky.edu/county. 

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