KY State Fair’s Entertainment Provider First to Receive Sensory Inclusive Certification

Published on: August 9, 2024

Kissel Entertainment is thrilled to announce that we have become the first traveling entertainment provider to be Sensory Inclusive™ certified by KultureCity. We are excited to debut this certification at this year’s Kentucky State Fair, making it the first state fair ever to have a Sensory Inclusive™ certified entertainment provider.

This certification underscores our commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that individuals with sensory needs can fully enjoy our events. KultureCity has provided certification and training to over 2,000 venues, organizations, and small businesses across the United States, including major stadiums and cultural institutions worldwide. Their Sensory Inclusive™ program equips staff with the necessary training and resources to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities, such as those with autism, PTSD, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and other conditions.

“Becoming Sensory Inclusive™ certified was extremely important to us, not only professionally, but personally,” said R.A. Kissel of Kissel Entertainment. “This certification ensures that everyone, regardless of their sensory needs, can partake in the fun and excitement of our fairs and events comfortably and safely.”

“One of our many goals of the Kentucky State Fair is to make every Kentuckian feel welcome and part of the celebration. We commend Kissel Entertainment for enhancing the guest experience and unveiling this new offering to our fairgoers,” said David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues. “We believe this change positively impacts many of those who visit Thrill Ville each day.”

As part of the certification process, Kissel Entertainment staff underwent training from leading medical and neurodivergent professionals to recognize and assist guests with sensory needs and manage sensory overload situations. Additionally, Kissel Entertainment will now provide sensory bags equipped with noise-reducing headphones, fidget tools, strobe reduction glasses, VIP lanyards, visual cue cards, and weighted lap pads. These resources help mitigate sensory overload and enhance the fair experience for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

In addition to our debut, Kissel Entertainment, in partnership with the Kentucky State Fair, FEAT of Louisville, Home of the Innocents, and the Kentucky Autism Training Center, will host Sensory Awareness Day on Wednesday, August 21. Fairgoers with sensory processing needs will receive free admission and ThrillVille tickets. From 10 a.m. until noon, ThrillVille will operate with minimal lights and music, creating a more enjoyable experience for those with sensory sensitivities. Ticket inquiries can be directed to FEAT of Louisville.

Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity®App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying our events. For a full list of FAQs about the certification here.

Kissel Entertainment has a longstanding commitment to serving the disability and neurodivergent communities, hosting sensory-friendly days for decades. This certification also aligns with our top-tier commitment to safety and innovation. It is a great honor to know we are the first traveling entertainment provider to receive this certificate and we encourage our industry peers to prioritize this for their own events. Our partnership with KultureCity and the debut of this certification at the Kentucky State Fair and beyond are further steps in our journey toward greater inclusivity.

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