SAINT PAUL, Minn. - The Fraser Festival, presented by Central Roofing Company, is a fun, one-of-a-kind, sensory-friendly event on May 20, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at a new location: Saint Paul RiverCentre. The festival is an inclusive space for all members of the community, which helps support autism acceptance.

According to the CDC, in 2020, 1 in 34 8-year-old children in MN have autism spectrum disorder, which means a growing number of Minnesotans have autism. To support this population, the Fraser Festival, presented by Central Roofing Company, raises funds to increase access to critical programs and services for people and families impacted by autism.

Individuals with autism often experience sensory processing differences that cause them to react with extreme discomfort to loud noises, bright lights, strong smells, crowds and other stimuli. This often makes attending community events difficult. The Fraser Festival, presented by Central Roofing Company, is a safe space for children, teens and adults with autism to dance, play and, most importantly, be themselves.

This year, the festival was reimagined to engage participants in new activities and experiences. Attendees will enjoy a photo booth, cupcake decorating, a silent disco, therapy animals, a hula hoop workshop, sports activities and more in eight zones that engage each of the body’s eight senses.

Most are familiar with the five senses — taste, smell, hear, touch and see, but people actually have at least eight senses, including proprioception (coordination), vestibular (balance/movement) and interoception (feeling).

The event raises funds to help meet the increased demand for services. Participants can fundraise as an individual, make a donation or volunteer their time.

Funds raised support:

• Autism programs and services for family, neighbors, friends and coworkers
• Increased inclusion in the community
• A growing number of children, adults and families diagnosed with autism each year
• The critical need for services outside the Twin Cities
• Services delivered closer to home for all Minnesotans

Fraser is a nationally recognized expert in treating early childhood autism and mental health, and in providing overall wellness programs for those who have intellectual or developmental disabilities with co-occurring autism or mental health issues. The nonprofit provides a lifetime of quality healthcare, housing, education, employment and support services. Visit fraser.org for more information.