Autism and Sensory Friendly Holiday Events in Edmonton and Calgary this December
Image description: An outdoor shopping district lit with festive lights wrapped around trees and storefronts.
As the weather chills and the nights get darker over the Holiday season, it can be easy to stay indoors and stick close to home.
But in the spirit of generosity, inclusivity, and accessibility for all, here are sensory friendly holiday events happening across the province this month:
Sensitive Santa
Sensitive Santa runs December 4 - 11 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM each day, at Kingsway Mall.
Sensitive Santa visits are private photo sessions for families with sensory and mobility sensitivities. Regular Santa visits are drop-in only, but Sensitive Santa must be booked.
View the booking form here.
Glow Without Limits
In partnership with Autism Edmonton, Glow is a private event designed for people on the autism spectrum to enjoy a family-friendly indoor holiday festival!
Enjoy light gardens, the Merry Makers Market, food and refreshment, live entertainment throughout the day—all beneath the glow of millions of lights.
Glow Without Limits takes place Saturday, December 17th from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Buy tickets online here.
For the Calgary version, which occurs December 10, Buy Calgary tickets here.
Sensory-Friendly Santa at Mill Woods Town Centre
RSVP to reserve your spot with Sensory-Friendly Santa at Mill Woods Town Centre!
Visit Santa in a sensory friendly environment and inclusive atmosphere and enjoy a private photo experience.
Book tickets online here.
Museum Sensory Night - Neurodiverse Maker’s Market
Museum Sensory Nights generally occur on the 3rd Thursday of every month.
On December 15, 2022, the Alberta Aviation Museum is partnering with Autism Edmonton to host a Neurodiverse Maker’s Market!
Learn more here.
Autism Calgary 30th Anniversary and Holiday Party
Taking place December 10th at Bowness Community Association, enjoy meeting and taking photos with Santa, along with delicious appetizers and desserts.
Tickets are $10 per person, but FREE for autistic adults and FREE for all children. Buy tickets here.
Ugly Sweater Holiday Dance
Hosted by Children’s Link, this event will take place at the CKE Community Centre on December 17th, 2022 from 6 PM to 8:30 PM!
Enjoy snacks, music, and lots of dancing—but don’t forget to wear your ugliest holiday sweater!
To purchase a ticket, you must be a member of Ups and Downs Calgary Down Syndrome Association. Become a member here.
Christmas Themed Yoga for Adults
Join an Adaptive Yoga for Adults for FREE on December 12, 2022 at 1 PM, at Oxygen Yoga in Calgary!
To register your spot, email yogabilitiesyy@gmail.com.
Gateway Community Holiday Potluck
The Gateway Association in Edmonton, Alberta invites you to a weekend afternoon of treats and company!
You will enjoy food, live music, and the chance to purchase artwork from the Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts.
The Gateway Community Holiday Potluck takes place December 11th, 2022 from 4 PM to 7 PM.
All Abilities New Years Party
Ring in the New Year at an inclusive evening of music, dance, games and more!
The All Abilities New Years Party takes place December 30th, 2022 starting 6 PM at 2725 12 Street NE, Calgary.
This event is 18+ only and includes buffet-style food, a cash bar, music, 50/50 raffle and other great activities.