The holiday season can be fun and exciting, but for some families the traditional events can feel overwhelming. Many venues across metro Detroit are offering sensory-friendly events that are designed to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for children and adults with sensory sensitivities. From quiet visits with Santa to holiday concerts tailored to those with light and sound sensitivities, there’s something for everyone this holiday season.
Special Needs Santa Visits @ The Village of Rochester Hills
Saturday, November 23: 2pm – 8pm
This holiday season, create unforgettable memories with Santa at The Village! Our enchanting outdoor setting provides the perfect backdrop for your family photos. Meet Santa, share your wishes, and enjoy festive activities that will fill your heart with joy.
Jingle Bell Ball @ Waterford Oaks Event Center (Waterford)
Wednesday, December 4th: 6pm – 8pm
Jingle Bell Ball is an event for individuals of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The event will include music, dancing and pizza plus a visit from Santa and a gift for the participant only. Cost is $12/participant and $6/caregiver, Pre-registration with payment required by Friday, Nov. 29. Call 248-858-0916 to register. Call 248-221-8040 for program questions.
Sensory-Friendly Holiday Concert @ The Community House (Birmingham)
Wednesday, December 4th: 6pm
You are invited to attend an evening of holiday music, performed by members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, specifically designed for those in the community who face sensory challenges. This seasonal event will be carefully balanced so that those with sound and light sensitivities can enjoy a festive experience along with their families and friends. Limited seating available.
Sensory Friendly Santa Visits @ The Oxford Center (Brighton)
December 4th (9am – 5pm) and December 5th (1pm – 7pm)
Experience the magic of Christmas at The Oxford Center’s Sensory Friendly Santa and Mrs. Claus Event! Designed especially for children with special needs and their families, this event offers a quiet, supportive environment perfect for children on the autism spectrum who may find the typical mall setting overwhelming.
Sensory Friendly Santa Visits @ The Oxford Center (Troy)
Friday, December 6th: 9am – 5pm
Experience the magic of Christmas at The Oxford Center’s Sensory Friendly Santa and Mrs. Claus Event! Designed especially for children with special needs and their families, this event offers a quiet, supportive environment perfect for children on the autism spectrum who may find the typical mall setting overwhelming.
A Sensory Friendly Visit with Santa @ Brownstown Parks and Recreation
Saturday, December 7th: 1pm – 3pm
A sensory friendly visit with Santa!
Santa will be doing everything he can to make sure you have a nice visit. No line, treats and crafts for kids while they wait to visit Santa.
Moana 2 (Sensory-Friendly Show) @ MJR Theatres (various locations)
Saturday, December 7th
he MJR Sensory Friendly Film program is perfect for those moviegoers who prefer or require a sensory-friendly environment. These designated showtimes feature brighter house lights, lowered volume, and open captions while also providing an opportunity for moviegoers to bring in their own personal devices, along with any food items for those with dietary restrictions. In addition, audience interaction, including moving and talking, is welcomed throughout the movie.
Sensory Santa @ Great Lakes Crossing (Auburn Hills)
Sunday, December 8th: 9am – 10:30am
Individuals and their families are invited to a special sensory-friendly Santa experience at Santa’s Flight Academy in District 7. At this private photo session, extra care is taken to support the sensory, physical, and other developmental needs to make this a magical holiday experience. Lights, music and other sounds will be turned down to help create a calming environment.
Sensory Santa @ Twelve Oaks Mall (Novi)
Sunday, December 8th: 9am – 10:30am
Individuals and their families are invited to a special sensory-friendly Santa experience at Santa’s Flight Academy in Center Court. At this private photo session, extra care is taken to support the sensory, physical, and other developmental needs to make this a magical holiday experience. Lights, music and other sounds will be turned down to help create a calming environment.
Wicked (Sensory Friendly Viewing) @ AMC Theatres (various locations)
Wednesday, December 11th
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing!
Moana 2 (Sensory Friendly Viewing) @ AMC Theatres (various locations)
Saturday, December 14th
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing!
Photo Credit: Great Lakes Crossing
