Welcome to Special Needs Day!
In partnership with Hydro Ottawa, The Capital Fair and the World’s Finest Shows Midway have designated a private day full of fun for children with developmental and/or physical disabilities. This special day offers families a unique opportunity to enjoy our activities in a supportive and accommodating environment.
Since 2000, Hydro Ottawa’s generosity and a legion of volunteers have made this incredible day possible. Their dedication and support in creating a calm and joyful experience have allowed these children and families to enjoy one of the most special days of their year.
We are deeply thankful for their generosity and for the incredible team of volunteers who return year after year to help us create lasting memories for everyone involved in Special Needs Day.
All You Need to Know!
Date & Time
The Special Needs Day 2025 will be happening on Tuesday, August 19th, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
We recommend arriving before 9:30 am for a seamless experience.
Activities & Attractions
- Midway Rides: Enjoy quieter and slower rides with assistance from volunteers.
- BBQ Lunch: A delicious all-beef hot dog lunch served by the Hydro Ottawa Food Preparation Team.
- Dessert: Chapman’s vanilla ice cream, sponsored by the Kiwanis Clubs of Eastern Ontario.
- Live Entertainment: Have fun with a variety of live performances.
- Petting Zoo: Interact with friendly animals in a safe environment.
How Does it Start?
Upon arrival at 10:00 AM, Hydro Ottawa volunteers will assign lunch schedules and stamp hands, allowing guests to head straight to the rides.
That’s where the fun really begins!
Volunteers from the World’s Finest Midway and Hydro Ottawa will be on hand to assist guests on and off the rides, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Please be sure to thank all our wonderful volunteers and sponsors for their commitment and dedication to making this great day happen!
What Visitors Are Saying – Real Experiences from Capital Fair
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“On behalf of my husband and I, we would like to thank you for organizing the Day for special needs’ children. Our daughter was happy to be there and it was nice to see her smile. It was our first participation and we are grateful to be have been included.”
“I just wanted to THANK YOU for such an incredible day for my son! He has never been to a fair before, and I wasn’t sure if he would like the rides or not. He was a bit nervous the first couple rides, and then was eager to do more. :-) He is a little guy, so he was able to ride most of the rides. The little kiddie ones were best suited to him. The fair staff and Hydro Ottawa volunteers were so welcoming, helped lift my son, would bring his wheelchair close to the exit while he was on the ride. It was just such an incredibly positive experience, for a little guy who finds it hard to access things. Just can’t thank you, the volunteers, the sponsors enough.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Thank you to Capital Fair and all your sponsors for such a wonderful day. We really enjoyed ourselves. The staff were so kind and helpful. Thank you once again.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Just wanted to thank you. My son had a wonderful time at the fair on the Special Needs Day. My parents enjoyed it with him. Hope this continues for many years to come.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Just wanted to drop you a note to say thanks to all involved for a wonderful day at the fair. It is the only fair that our son attends all summer and he really looks forward to it. He really enjoyed himself yesterday and couldn’t wait to go. Surprisingly one of the highlights for him this year was running into so many people he knew.”
Check Out The Fair Schedule
How to Apply?
We are excited to welcome you to our annual Hydro Ottawa Special Needs Day at the Capital Fair in Ottawa!
Applications open every February, so mark your calendars and be ready to apply early as spots fill up quickly. Here’s how you can join us:
- Fill Out the Application Form: Once applications open, fill out the form available on our website. It’s quick and easy!
- Watch Your Inbox: After submitting your application, keep an eye on your email (and check your junk folder, just in case). If you’re accepted, you’ll receive an email confirmation from us.
- Limited Spots: Remember, we can only accommodate up to 1,500 participants each year. Our spots are highly coveted and fill up fast, so the sooner you apply, the better your chances.
- Sign the Waiver: Once accepted, you’ll need to sign a waiver to secure a limited number of tickets per person in your party.
Terms and Conditions for Participation
Event Date & Time:
The 2025 Special Needs Day is on Tuesday, August 19th, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. While families with special needs are always welcome at the Fair, this day is dedicated exclusively to them.
Eligibility:
This event is specifically for special needs children (18 and younger), their immediate families, and/or client attendants. Due to high demand and capacity restrictions, we cannot accommodate additional relatives or friends.
Registration Limit:
Registration is limited to the first 1,500 participants. Each family can bring a maximum of 6 immediate family members. Register no later than two weeks before the event. Registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so early submission is crucial.
Confirmation and Waivers:
e-Confirmations with waivers will be sent to your email about one week before Special Needs Day. If you do not receive your e-Confirmation and waiver, contact us at info@capitalfair.ca.
Check-In:
Check-in is between 9:30 am and 10:00 am at the front of the Fairgrounds on Tuesday, August 19th. Present your e-Confirmation and signed waivers for every member of your party at the Hydro Ottawa Registration Tent. Each member must have a signed waiver, even if they are not participating in rides. Only then will you receive your bracelet/hand stamp to access the grounds.
Important: No waiver, no access, no exceptions.
Sign Up for Special Needs Day
Applications for 2025 are now full.
If you missed out this year, we’d still love to have you join our waitlist for the next year by filling up the form.
Don’t miss out on a day filled with fun, inclusivity, and unforgettable experiences.