Sensory-friendly DFW Holiday Events for 2024
Twinkling lights, festive music, and bustling crowds all help to make the Christmas season a magical and memorable time for many individuals. Yet these same elements can be overwhelming for people with sensory sensitivities and other special needs. As awareness has increased, more inclusive holiday options are becoming available around town. For 2024, here are some of the top sensory-friendly Christmas events happening in DFW:
Enjoy music, laughter, and a focus on the real reason for the season with Charlie Brown and the Peanuts Gang. Adaptations include brighter house lighting and lower sound levels, and a quiet room for children who may need a break. Families can also help kids prepare for the experience with family resources including a downloadable social story, parent tipsheet, and synopsis of the play. Recommended for ages 5 and up; find ticketing information and family resources here.
Date: November 16 (preshow begins at 12:30 PM; show begins at 1:30 PM)
Location: Rosewood Center (5938 Skillman, Dallas, TX 75231)
Cost: $5 per person (call DCT Box Office at 214-740-0051 to reserve tickets or request wheelchair-accessible seating)
Experience the magical sight of more than 2 million lights, glowing lanterns, and more at the Dallas Zoo. The evening will feature low volume music, activities for smaller crowds, safe havens throughout the zoo, a sensory station, and a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus. Visitors may also borrow sensory bags with noise-cancelling headphones and a fidget toy for the evening. Purchase tickets here.
Date: December 16 from 5:30-10:00 PM
Location: The Dallas Zoo (650 S R.L. Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203)
Cost: $19 for adults, $15 for youth
Celebrate the holidays with this family-friendly musical featuring holiday parodies of today's most popular songs. Light and sound elements of the show will be muted, and a quiet room will be available. Tickets available here.
Date: December 8 at 11:00 AM
Location: Casa Manana (3101 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76107)
Cost: $24–$44 depending on seat selection.
Audience members can enjoy a special sensory performance of this seasonal classic. Adaptations include lower sound levels, brighter lighting, and relaxed house rules which allow guests to move freely and talk during the performance. Trained staff, ushers, and volunteers will be available for assistance as well. Find more info and purchase tickets here.
Date: December 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM
Location: Moody Performance Hall (2520 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201)
Cost: $28–$68 depending on seat selection
Photos with Santa
What’s Christmas without a chance to meet and take a photo with Santa? Check out one of the following opportunities to continue this holiday tradition in a quieter, less-crowded, sensory-friendly setting. There is no cost to book a reservation, and photo package purchases are optional. Santa, staff, and volunteers are trained to understand the needs of guests who are on the autism spectrum or have sensory sensitivities. Book reservations by location here.
- Santa Cares at Willow Bend Mall
Date: December 8, 9:30–10:30 AM
Location: 6121 West Park Blvd, Plano, TX 75093 (Neiman Marcus Court)
- Santa Cares at Grapevine Mills Mall
Date: December 8, 9:00-10:30 AM
Location: 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine, TX 76051 (Entry 5, near Levi's)
- "Quiet Santa" at Watters Creek
Date: December 8, 9:00-10:00 AM (reserve here instead of Santa Cares website)
Location: 970 Garden Park Dr, Allen, TX 75013
This year, start a new holiday tradition with one or more of these sensory-friendly Christmas events. It’s a great way to include all of your loved ones in the joy and magic of the season!