Accessible family events over the Christmas holidays
In our family polls families raising a disabled or seriously ill child regularly tell us that events, activities and special occasions can prove challenging- with 81% of families saying they have felt left out at festivals or celebrations because of their child’s disability or serious illness.
Christmas time can create sensory triggers, with many festive events involving lights, glitter, temperature changes, different smells and sounds. Places can be overcrowded, loud and generally overwhelming.
Many attractions and places across the UK are hosting accessible or relaxed events for families, to support as many people as possible to enjoy the festivities this winter. This festive season, we’re celebrating those places that get it right and are inclusive and welcoming for all.
To help you find suitable events, below are some events and theatre performances that could be of interest.
Accessible events and days out
Relaxed theatre performances
Relaxed theatre performances mean the auditorium has a supportive atmosphere when it comes to noise and movement. These performances are ideal for people with learning disabilities or autism, or anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment. Some theatre productions are also able to offer captioned or signed performances too.
Take a look at our page of relaxed theatre performances to see if there is one near you!
Relaxed theatre performancesLuminate UK has illuminated light trails this winter for families to explore. Trails have been created to be as accessible as possible, within the context of the site. They have sensory-friendly sessions available which can be found through the FAQs of the specific site you want to visit.
Luminate UK – FAQsDobbies garden centres are offering a ‘quiet grotto’ festive experience from 2:30pm on Friday 8 December. Sessions can only be pre-booked, with no queuing on the day and a reduced capacity. They’ll make sure all music is off and twinkling lights are removed or off.
Dobbies Garden Centres – Santa’s quiet grottoLapland UK is an immersive festive experience. They have designated, adapted days called ‘Superstar Day’ to allow greater flexibility and support for those with additional needs. Tours operate at reduced capacity so they’re quieter, with improved accessibility and offer additional support if required.
Lapland UK – accessibilityThis festive journey will take your family from penguins and polar bears, to giant sized teddy bears loading Santa’s sleigh, and past the busy elves hard at work in the toy factory. The journey continues outside to the lantern light extravaganza. Thursford has a relaxed day on Friday 8 December between 2:00pm and 4:45pm. This will have reduced capacity and softer music and lighting.
Thursford – Santa’s magical journeyMurton Park is a Makaton- friendly family attraction. At Christmas they offer a village full of festive decorations and the chance to have tea with Santa.
Murton Park – Makaton friendly siteSpencer’s Retreat Farm has a maximum of five families per event available to allow families to enjoy the site and activities without the crowds. If, and when, your family is ready, you can see Santa in the stable’s grotto.
Spencer’s Retreat – Santa session for SEN familiesOut of Bounds is an activities centre holding an open Christmas activity event, including bowling, clip’n’climb and soft play, for children with special education needs and disabilities, and their siblings. This is taking place on Friday 22 December from 5:00pm.
Out of Bounds – SEND Christmas eventThe supportive setup at Bleary Business and Community Centre is providing a relaxed Christmas experience weekends in an accessible setting.
Christmas Comes Alive – Relaxed ChristmasCastle Espie Wetland Centre has a special Elf Academy this year with SEN sessions on Friday 22 December, for a limited capacity. You’ll be able to take part in Christmas crafts before getting cosy for a story from papa elf!
Castle Espie Wetland Centre – Elf academyElfingrove is offering relaxed ice-skating sessions for people to enjoy the magic of Christmas in a more relaxed way. Sounds and lights will be adjusted to a more ambient level, and there will be a reduced capacity.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum – Elfingrove ice-skatingAt home activities
There are lots of Christmas themed activities and crafts available online for families to enjoy some creative time together. And don’t forget, we have free, Discover Digital creative iPad workshops this winter, including our ‘create an elfie-selfie’ workshop!
Family Fund Discover Digital workshopsWe’d love to hear about your experience if you’re attending any accessible events. And we’re always keen to find out about great places that have accessible facilities for families.
If you’d like to share your experiences, please get in touch by emailing: [email protected].