Due to popular demand, Sensory Day takes place monthly at the Hattiesburg Zoo

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) – The first Sunday of every month is now Sensory Day at the Hattiesburg Zoo.

For those who don’t know, Sensory Day is an event where the zoo makes special efforts to reduce stimuli for sensory-sensitive guests. It has been a popular special event in the past.

“By offering this special day at a set time each month, our guests can easily remember when Sensory Day is taking place, so they can plan their visits in advance and enjoy this day of reduced sensory awareness at our zoo,” said Jeremy Cumpton, the zoo’s director of conservation and education.

In a press release, zoo officials said Sensory Day helps relieve some of the stress of a normal day at the zoo. Noises – like background music and train bells – or hectic movements – like lively animal encounters – can easily trigger stimuli in people with sensory sensitivities.

In addition, zoo staff offer sensory-friendly alternatives. Examples include quiet animal encounters, sensory stations, and sensory bags with tools like noise-canceling headphones, fidgets, and weighted lap pillows. You can obtain a sensory bag from the zoo office when you arrive.

Officials said zoo staff are also trained to recognize guests with sensory needs and deal with sensory overload. The zoo itself was the first attraction in Mississippi to be certified as a sensory-inclusive site by KultureCity.

Upcoming Sensory Day dates include September 1, October 6, November 3 and December 8. The event will be held during regular zoo hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and regular admission prices apply. The zoo said it would also accept annual passes for the event.

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