DES MOINES, Iowa —

The Iowa State Fair hosted a sensory-friendly morning on Wednesday, featuring reduced noise, limited flashing lights, and quiet learning areas.

Two air-conditioned calming rooms were available for anyone needing a break, and for the first time, a welcome tent was set up at Gate 15 to answer questions before families headed to their festivities.

Cindy Pommrehn, a mother attending the event, said, "It's so amazing, it's a great resource. It provides opportunities for families like us to have the opportunity to bring Aiden to the fair, get to do some fun things as a family in a way that works for him."

For those unable to attend the sensory-friendly morning, a calming room is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the service center.

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