Winter Holiday Events in Washington State
Do you have an event you would like to share on this list? Email informingfamilies@ddc.wa.gov with the event information!
King County
Enchant Christmas Lights (Seattle, WA) Sensory Friendly Early Arrival
December 3rd, 2024
Tickets required
“We invite adults and families to experience Enchant with reduced volume and capacity from 5:30-7:30 PM.”
Sensory-Friendly Public Skate Kraken Community Iceplex
Dates to come
“Geared towards neurodiverse individuals, this public skate will feature limited attendance and minimum noise levels. A limited number sensory bags will be available upon request to borrow free of charge, and we will have a quiet room reserved for guests to use.”
Wildlaterns at Woodland Zoo Low Sensory Lights
November 20th, December 11th, and January 9th
“On November 20, December 11, 2024 and January 9, 2025; WildLanterns will feature special low sensory experiences to provide a comfortable holiday adventure for everyone. This inclusive program, designed to cater to individuals and families of all abilities and requirements, will offer a warm and festive atmosphere amidst the captivating beauty of the holiday season and is welcome to all!
Zoomazium will transform into Zoomazium Nightlights presented by Kaiser Permanente, a designated low-sensory space with dimmed lighting and with owls and wind hooting and howling softly in the background. Families guests will find several themed activities like neon coloring and a rotating activity facilitated by Zoomazium Instructors each night at 6:30 p.m.. Come enjoy a quieter moment with reduced sensory input during your visit to WildLanterns.”
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker Sensory-Friendly Performance
Thursday, December 19th at 2:00 PM
“This performance will feature a supportive and welcoming environment so children and adults affected by autism or with other sensory needs can enjoy the shared experience of live ballet with their friends and family. Modified lighting and sound levels, fidgets, entry/exit privileges, trained staff, allowance of devices, and a quiet room will be offered at this matinee.”
Spokane
Breakfast with Santa
December 7th from 9:00-12:00PM
The Arc of Spokane
“Jump into the holidays with Parent to Parent and Transition & Young Adult Programs! Join us for this free event filled with holiday cheer including pancakes, Bingo and other activities The big man himself, Santa, will be there for stress-free photos! Throw on your most festive clothes and join us for this special event.”
Tri-Cities (Benton and Franklin Counties)
The Arc Christmas Party
December 5th from 5:30-7:30 PM
The Arc of Tri-Cities
Statewide
Santa Cares
Varying locations and times
“Santa Cares events allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy Santa Magic photo experiences in an inclusive environment that improves comfort, enjoyment and participation among children with sensory sensitivities. Most events take place on Sunday, December 8, 2024. Some event dates may vary – click on your location below to confirm date and time. Can’t make the listed event? No worries! Our staff receives specialty training to assist guests all season long. Generally, we see reduced traffic Monday-Thursday prior to 4pm, creating a more sensory-friendly environment.”
Christmas Lights Drive-Thru
Check your local area for drive-thru Christmas lights! Many locations or neighborhoods have lights on displays that you can view from the comfort of your car.
Recreation
Outdoors for All | Locations Vary | Program includes winter sports like snowshoeing, skiing, and more!
“Outdoors for All provides a variety of recreation activities for individuals with disabilities. These activities are designed to accommodate a broad range of individual skill levels; from individuals who want to try something new to athletes who aspire to compete.”
https://outdoorsforall.org/programs/recreation-programs/
