Sensory-Friendly Holidays in the Philly Area

The holidays are upon us, and I don’t know how the time is going so quickly! Through the years, my family and I have slowly started adopting new traditions that were more sensory-friendly for my son’s needs during our holidays. While it can be hard to let old traditions go, it is also exciting to experience new ones that are appropriate for the needs of my ENTIRE family.

If you live in the Philadelphia area, I have compiled a list of some sensory-friendly/adaptable events happening during the 2023 holidays. Please share any ideas below in comments that could be helpful for us all!

2023 Sensory-Friendly Holiday Events

Elmwood Park Zoo – Wild Lights

  • 1661 Harding Blvd, Norristown, PA
  • Certified Autism Center
  • 11/17-12/30 from 5-9 PM
  • There is usually a sensory-friendly holiday night announced each season; check website for details

Shady Brook Farm – Drive-thru Holiday Light Show

  • 931 Stony Hill Rd. Yardley, PA 19067
  • Drive-thru lights in the comfort of your own car
  • You can adjust the sounds via your car radio
  • Drive-thru snacks are available or you can bring your own
  • Weeknights and tickets purchased ahead of time are cheaper

Green Heather Lights – Neighborhood Light Show

  • Green Heather Court in Buckingham Township, PA
  • This is a family run show at their own home
  • LED lights sync to radio for a beautiful holiday show about 20 mins. long
  • Different themed nights throughout the season
  • Be mindful of where you park and turn headlights off
  • Beginning date TBD

Sensory-Friendly Winter Wonderland

  • 742 Alexander Road Suite 100, Princeton, NJ 08540
  • Thursday, December 14th, 5-6:30 PM
  • Hosted by the Biermans Autism Centers in Princeton
  • Photo booths, sweet treats, “Santa’s Sensory Stop”

Sensory-Friendly Performances of “The Nutcracker”

  • Philadelphia Ballet Performance
    • December 26th at 12 PM
    • Academy of Music at 240 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
    • Ticket prices range from $25-239
  • Roxey Ballet Performance
    • December 9th at 3-5 PM
    • Mill Ballet at 46 N. Sugan Rd, New Hope, PA 18938
    • General admission – $30

Annual Holiday Celebration for Families Affected by Autism

  • TREC Center, 55 Ludlow St, Newark, NJ 07114
  • Dec 16, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
  • Music, food, sensory activities, Santa, and resources
  • Must register to attend

For more information on the events above, feel free to email most.au.some.journey@gmail.com.

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