Autism-Friendly Holiday Activities Near You
The holidays are some of the busiest times of the year. With that comes crowds, noise, flashing lights and more. Those with autism or developmental disabilities may feel overwhelmed celebrating in public settings — but countless autism-friendly places and activities may bring holiday cheer to your family, without the sensory overload.
Looking for autism-friendly activities near you this holiday season? Read on to see a few of Paraquad’s picks!
U.S. Bank Wild Lights
Every year, the U.S. Bank Wild Lights takes over the Saint Louis Zoo. Twinkling lights dot walkways and displays of penguins, swans and more wait to be discovered. Each ticket includes:
Entry to Wild Lights
Entry to Penguin and Puffin Coast and the Insectarium
Entry to the 4D Theater and the Conservation Carousel
A Free Craft for Kids
But, as a popular attraction, the journey through the light display may become overwhelming for people who don’t love crowds. Luckily, Sensory Night on December 11, 2023, offers the perfect sensory alternative to the traditional Wild Lights experience.
Supported by the Autism Clinic at Hope, the night is one of the best autism-friendly activities near you. Attendees have access to sensory maps, designated quiet areas and trained Zoo staff on stand-by to assist in the event of sensory overload.
Christmas Traditions on Historic Main Street
One of our favorite autism-friendly places is Historic Main Street in Saint Charles. Each year, thousands of visitors travel to the area for Christmas Traditions. The month-long festival features holiday characters in costume, limited-time holiday vendors, Christmas lights and more.
The event stretches across the entire street, offering plenty of space to get away from the crowds if need be. With Frontier Park within walking distance, Christmas Traditions is a great way to tackle the winter chill while embracing a little holiday cheer.
On Sunday, December 10, 2023, Saint Charles Christmas Traditions will also host a self-guided, sensory-friendly experience at the Historic Katy Depot Frontier Park. From 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., visitors will be invited to meet a select number of characters in a less stimulating environment.
The Katie Depot offers multiple autism-friendly activities near you with modified lighting and sound, such as:
“Oh Christmas Tree: The Evolution of an Icon”
The Reindeer Hall of Fame
The Elf Workshop
The Mail Room
Santa’s Parlor
Drive-Thru Christmas Lights
Some would rather keep their environment controlled. Luckily, drive-thru light shows are the perfect way to celebrate the holidays from the comfort of your own car. From the Celebration of Lights in O’Fallon to the Holiday Lights Drive-Through at Grant’s Farm, St. Louis is full of options for families of children with autism or other developmental disabilities.
One of our favorites is WonderLights Christmas at World Wide Technology Raceway. The dazzling display of lights syncs up to music, from family favorite songs to modern classics. Displays often include shooting stars, floating snowflakes, dancing candy canes and a tunnel of lights sure to spark joy this holiday season.
At-Home Crafts
Instead of searching for autism-friendly activities or places near you, you can always make a little holiday magic at home. Arts and crafts offer the perfect way to ring in the season, while staying in a completely comfortable environment.
Some of our favorite sensory crafts for the holidays include:
Explore Autism-Friendly Places
It’s important to remember that sensory needs are not one-size-fits-all — some people may be okay with a small crowd, while others may need to have more space. The holiday season is all about making memories with your family and friends, so be sure to celebrate your way!
As an organization for people with disabilities, Paraquad works to understand individual needs and provide recommendations for activities in the St. Louis area. Looking for more autism-friendly activities near you? Visit Paraquad’s blog for our team’s latest recommendations.
