A list of sensory-friendly holiday events in the Triangle

Kimberly Cataudella
·2 min read

As we’re keeping track of all the holiday events, gatherings, performances and light displays in the Triangle this December, we’re paying special attention to sensory-friendly events for our neighbors with disabilities.

We’ll keep adding to this list as we learn of more sensory-friendly holiday events in the area this year. If you know about something we missed, email us at ask@newsobserver.com.

Important: Whenever possible, please check the website for each event or venue prior to heading out to verify hours of operation (which can change) and to learn more about rain dates for outdoor events.

Sensory-friendly holiday events in NC

▪ The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival Sensory Friendly Night: The evening will provide a welcoming environment for individuals on the autism spectrum as well as those with sensitivity issues or developmental disabilities.

This Sensory Friendly Night will include lower decibel music, decreased capacity, no strobe or flashing lights, as well as access to designated Quiet Areas to decompress from sensory overload. The festival aligns with “We Rock the Spectrum” to make this night special for all who attend. If you need specific accessibility assistance to attend, visit the website and fill out the “Accessibility Information” form.

  • When: Dec. 6, 4:30 and 6 p.m.

  • Where: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary

  • Tickets: Adults (13+) are $16 in advance, $18 night-of. Children (3-12) are $11 in advance, $13 night-of. Discounted tickets are $13 in advance, $15 night-of.

  • Info: boothamphitheatre.com/events/detail/sensory-friendly-night

Deiara Frye, right, poses for a photo with her four-month-old, Samaiha Frye, as they visit the Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary on Wednesday evening, Dec. 22, 2021. Fryes mom, Shamina Williams, takes the photo as the three visit the Festival for the first time.
Deiara Frye, right, poses for a photo with her four-month-old, Samaiha Frye, as they visit the Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary on Wednesday evening, Dec. 22, 2021. Fryes mom, Shamina Williams, takes the photo as the three visit the Festival for the first time.

▪ Marbles Kids Museum Lights Up, Sound Down Movie (Polar Express): Join this free event exclusively for kids with disabilities and their families to experience Marbles in a calmer, quieter environment. Prior to Sensory Friendly Playtime you and your guests can watch a free Lights Up, Sound Down movie. The lights will remain on and the sound is turned down so you can hear the person beside you.

Registered participants may attend the movie. Tickets for the movie are not needed, just head over to the IMAX theater and you will be greeted by the Marbles staff. Partner organizations will be on-site inside the museum lobby and other accommodations to assist with your visit to Marbles.

▪ Marbles Kids Museum Sensory Friendly Playtime: Join this free event exclusively for kids with disabilities and their families to experience Marbles in a calmer, quieter environment. Kids are encouraged to come in their pajamas to play! Partner organizations will be on-site inside the museum lobby and other accommodations to assist with your visit to Marbles.