Knights of Columbus Sensory Friendly Carnival on Memorial Day Another Big Success

Dear Friends and Community Members,

We are proud to share the success of the 3rd Annual Sensory Friendly Carnival, which took place on Saturday, May 24, 2025, during our annual Memorial Weekend Carnival at Vern Allen Park in Washingtonville.

Hosted by the Washingtonville Knights of Columbus, the Memorial Weekend Carnival has long been a tradition in our community. Three years ago, we introduced a new component to the weekend’s festivities — a sensory-friendly carnival experience designed to be welcoming and inclusive for individuals with special needs and their families.

With the generous support of Fred McDaniels, owner of McDaniels Brothers Shows, families were invited to enjoy a quieter atmosphere with full access to the carnival grounds and free rides during a designated sensory-friendly time. This effort ensures that everyone in our community has the opportunity to experience the joy and fun of the carnival in a way that best suits their needs.

The idea for the sensory-friendly carnival grew out of conversations with one of our local community members and parent advocate for the special needs community, Celina Rofer. Working together with the McDaniels Brothers Shows and local sponsors, we were able to bring this inclusive vision to life and make it a meaningful part of our Memorial Weekend tradition.

In addition to the rides and games, the event also featured emergency vehicles from the Washingtonville Fire Department, Washingtonville Police Department and Blooming Grove Ambulance Corps, giving families a chance to explore and interact with the dedicated first responders who serve our area.

Awareness of the event is spread through special needs advocacy groups on social media, local school special education departments and by word of mouth among those who would benefit most. Many of our guests are members of Beautiful People Adaptive Sports, an organization fostering athletes of all abilities beginning at age 5, with a mission to empower and include through sports.

This event continues to grow each year thanks to the support, care and collaboration of our community. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s Sensory Friendly Carnival a heartwarming success.

If your business or organization is interested in hosting a carnival, call Fred McDaniels 201-376-0581.

“The sensory event was nothing short of amazing.  The smiles & laughs touched my heart and the overwhelming appreciation shown by the parents really hit home.  So glad to be part of it.” 

— Tom Gildea, Grand Knight 

With sincere thanks,

The Washingtonville Knights of Columbus

Memorial Weekend Carnival Committee

WASHINGTONVILLE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL #5890

18 HALLOCK DRIVE, WASHINGTONVILLE, NY

“The sensory friendly carnival was a

dream come true. Truly forever

grateful.” - Rachel P.

“We look forward to this every year.

My son loves it. So thankful they do

it.” - Amy M.

“Thanks again for this. He had the

greatest time. He was so happy!!!

"I'm flying mommy!" - Christine D.

“My daughter loves this carnival

every year. And it’s the perfect time

of day. - Julia M.

Story and photos provided by:

845-492-1715