Dutchess County’s ThinkDIFFERENTLY to Host “Hocus Pocus” Event

"Hocus Pocus" is one of those Halloween staples that cannot be missed each season. Honestly, it is near impossible to miss with how much Freeform plays every 31 Nights if Halloween. As much fun as it is to watch from the comfort of your home, it can be even better to share it with others. Having the experience of that communal joy of watching one of your favorite movies can feel like no other.

Dutchess County and Bardavon to Host ThinkDIFFERENTLY Sensory-Friendly "Hocus Pocus" Event

Dutchess County invites residents of all abilities and their families to a free sensory-sensitive screening of the Halloween classic, “Hocus Pocus,” on Friday, Oct. 20th, at the Bardavon Opera House, 35 Market Street in Poughkeepsie. The movie will begin at 6:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.

As part of this special ThinkDIFFERENTLY event, the theater will adjust both the lighting and sound to make the experience more enjoyable for those on the autism spectrum or who experience sensory sensitivities. The showing will also include closed captioning. Individuals, families and support agencies are all invited to this free event. Seating is limited; registration is required and can be completed at dutchessny.gov/show.

Dutchess County All Abilities Director Dana Hopkins said,

“We are excited to host another sensory friendly movie night so our friends of all abilities can enjoy a full movie experience and fall fun. In addition to the adjusting lights and sounds, we make sure there is space between attendees to ensure all are comfortable and can enjoy the film. It’s sure to be a bewitching evening.”

For additional details, residents can view the event flyer online.

ThinkDIFFERENTLY Events

The movie event is the second of three sensory-friendly ThinkDIFFERENTLY shows and performances the County is sponsoring at the Bardavon this year. This past March, storyteller David Gonzalez took to the stage for an afternoon of live music and interactive stories, and the series will conclude with an hour-long, sensory-sensitive performance of “The Nutcracker” on Friday, Dec. 8th.

Dutchess County’s ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative seeks to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to individuals with special needs. The County hosts several inclusive events throughout the year such as the annual ThinkDIFFERENTLY Fitness & Field Day, ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday at the Dutchess County Fair and the ThinkDIFFERENTLY Conference to ensure individuals and their loved ones have access to vital information and resources as well as inclusive offerings.

To learn more about the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative or to see upcoming events visit, thinkdifferently.net.