CHANNAHON — Nearly 500 children and adults, the majority of them with special needs, got first dibs on the carnival rides at Three Rivers Festival in Channahon Wednesday afternoon.

For several hours, the carnival was open just for them before it opened to the public on the first day of the event.

This is the third year the program has been in existence. It gives those with special needs an opportunity to go on rides, play a game or two, and wander the fairgrounds without the fear of crowds, typical loud carnival noises, or not being able to get the proper help to enjoy their visit.