There are so many opportunities to enjoy Santa and other holiday celebrations with your family this month! We’ve compiled a list of all the Sensory Friendly Events in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and surrounding areas so you can easily plan your December family time.

December 4th
Santa Cares Day

Santa welcomes children of all ages and abilities! Autism Speaks has partnered with several local malls to provide sensory-friendly Santa Experiences for families across the country!

All families with children with autism and other special needs can enjoy the time-honored tradition of a visit with Santa, in a more subdued and calm environment. Sensory-friendly Santa events are free and keepsake photo packages will be available for purchase. Please RSVP to reserve your spot today!

Houston

The Galleria

Willowbrook Mall

Baybrook Mall

Katy Mills Mall

First Colony Mall

Memorial City Mall

The Woodlands

Dallas

Shops at Willowbend

Hulen Mall

San Antonio

Ingram Park Mall

The Shops at La Cantera

 

December 5th
Zoo Lights Sensory Friendly Night

On this Zoo Lights night, guests can expect a smaller crowd, quieter music, limited flashing lights, and designated quiet areas. 

Learn more here.

December 6th
The Nutcracker

Bring your sensory sensitive loved one to experience the timeless story of The Nutcracker performed by the professional dancers of Ballet San Antonio. This sensory-friendly performance will be an abbreviated version of the full-length production featuring Act Il.

Learn more here.

 

December 12th
Children’s Museum of Houston Sensory Friendly Day

Children with autism spectrum disorder and their families are invited to experience the Museum with dimmed lights, limited extra sounds, and no distracting motions during this private event. Extra signage is added to help visitors determine things not to climb on, and entrances between exhibits where it is good to stop and wait for an adult before continuing. This exclusive event includes the following modifications:

  • Less crowded environment
  • Light and sound reduction
  • Extra visual safety signage
  • Designated quiet rooms

December 16th
The Nutcracker, a sensory-friendly performance by Alamo City Arts

Alamo City Arts and Eva’s Heroes team up again to bring a sensory-friendly performance of the holiday-favorite ballet, The Nutcracker! In 2018, Eva’s Heroes collaborated with Alamo City Arts and the Alamo City Dance Company to create a sensory-friendly Nutcracker performance that featured the incredible individuals that participate in the amazing organization of Eva’s Heroes.

Learn more here.

 

December 17th
Winter Wonderland in Lewisville

Apara Autism Centers Winter Wonderland party is perfect for the family! Stop by and meet Santa!

  • Meet and take a picture with Santa
  • Winter Wonderland Snacks
  • Holiday crafts
  • Gift Wrapping
  • Ornament decorating
  • Sensory Bins
  • Holiday Movie

Learn more here.

 


About the Authors

Apara Autism Center is a leading provider of ABA therapy in Texas. We understand the difficulty of dealing with uncertainty and are prepared to assist you with our collaborative developmental therapy support. If you’re looking for ABA therapy near you, we have centers in Houston, Dallas, and surrounding areas. Apara Autism Center employs a team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) that can assist you with resources to help comfort your child during stressful times. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to call (844) 272-7223 or contact us with your questions and concerns.