Winter is a magical time filled with lights, music, and festive fun. However, for families with children who have sensory sensitivities, finding accessible holiday activities can be challenging. Thankfully, Ankeny and nearby areas in Iowa offer several sensory-friendly events designed to create joyful experiences for everyone. Here’s a guide to some great events to explore this season.
Sensory-Friendly Winter Lights in Ankeny
Winter Wonderlights
Located in Uptown Ankeny, this event features over 50 animated light displays. The lights span six blocks of SW 3rd Street and the Ankeny Market & Pavilion Park, making it a serene and festive experience for visitors of all ages. The display is open nightly through December 31 and can be enjoyed on foot, by bike, or by car. This is a free event, perfect for families seeking a low-stress holiday outing.
Sensory-Friendly Lights at Des Moines Children’s Museum
Play under the lights and learn about light festivals around the world in their annual special holiday event. Their Sensory Friendly play time is for children on the autism spectrum or with other sensory sensitivities and their families to connect and explore. They will have sensory bins, communication boards, and the holiday lights create a low light calming space throughout the entire museum.
** Please note that their usual Sensory Friendly Play Time is typically the fourth Friday of each month, but due to the holiday break, it will be moved to December 20th (the third Friday) for this month only.
Inclusive Holiday Gatherings
FUSE Ho Ho Ho Holiday Gathering
This event at Prairie Ridge Church in Ankeny is designed for individuals aged 14 and older with special needs. Happening on December 10, attendees can enjoy crafts, games, and socializing in a positive, accommodating environment. Tickets are only $3 per person, making it an affordable holiday treat.
Special Santa Events
A short drive from Ankeny these events offer sensory-friendly opportunities to meet Santa.
- Special Santa Event at Journey Church on December 7 provides personal, quiet visits with Santa and his elves. Learn more and register.
- Meet Autism-Friendly Santa at Fi & Friends on December 8 ensures a calm, child-led visit, complete with professional photos. Register for a time.
- Santa Cares event at Valley West Mall 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. Learn more and register.
These events are perfect for creating cherished holiday memories.
Sensory-Friendly Movie Screenings
Frozen at Varsity Cinema
Families can enjoy a free sensory-friendly showing of Frozen on December 14 at the Varsity Cinema in Des Moines. The theater offers a comfortable setting with lower volume and dimmed lights, allowing children with sensory challenges to relax and enjoy the magic of the big screen. Learn more and reserve your seats.
Sensory Friendly Showing of The Polar Express at the Putnam Museum
In collaboration with the Autism Society of Quad Cities, enjoy a sensory-friendly showing of The Polar Express on December 15 for $5 per person. This includes dimmed theater lights, lower volume, movies in 2D, no trailers, handicap-accessible seating, freedom to move around and make noise in the theater, and a “chill out zone” outside of the theater. Learn more an reserve tickets.
Adaptive Ice Skating in Des Moines
Sensory Skate at Brenton Skating Plaza
On December 28, Brenton Skating Plaza will host a sensory-friendly ice skating session. With fewer crowds and thoughtful accommodations, it’s an excellent way to enjoy winter sports in a fun and inclusive environment. Learn more about their special events.
How Circle City ABA Can Help
Circle City ABA is here to support families in Ankeny and beyond by providing tailored ABA therapy services for children with autism. Our play-based therapy helps children build confidence and develop essential skills in a nurturing environment. Contact our admissions team today to learn more and start your journey with Circle City ABA.
If you’d like to learn more about these events, check their official websites or contact the organizers. These activities can create lasting memories while supporting sensory-friendly needs. Happy holidays!
