As part of PTSB’s ongoing partnership with AsIAm, Ireland’s Autism Charity, we’re proud to support initiatives that promote inclusion and accessibility for the Autism community. This Christmas season, we are featuring Autism-friendly events across Ireland to help families enjoy the festivities in a calm and welcoming environment.

The Snow Queen Panto (sensory-friendly performance) - The Helix

Location:

The Helix Theatre, Dublin City University, Glasnevin

Dates:

December 2025

Sensory-Friendly Performance: 16 December 2025 at 6pm

This theatrical Christmas performance features low house lights, muted sound effects, and a relaxed environment, crafted for comfort, joy and sensory ease.

Pricing and Booking:

€38 (excluding €3 booking fee)

Galway Christmas Market

Location:

Eyre Square, Galway City, Galway

Dates:

7 November – 31 December 2025

This relaxed, open-air festive walk is perfect for families who prefer gentle, flexible Christmas moments and outdoor environments where overstimulation is easier to handle. Santa’s Cabin is located on the main plaza, between The Browne Doorway and the Christmas Tree.

Pricing and Booking:

The Christmas Market entry is free.

Santa’s opening hours:

Friday: 4pm to 8pm

Saturday: 11am to 8pm

Sunday: 11am to 7:30pm 

Santa’s Cabin is approximately €20 per child

Santa underground - Arigna Mining experience

Location:

Arigna Mining experience, Co. Roscommon

Dates:

Weekends between 6-22 December 2025

This unique, calm Christmas adventure is designed for smaller groups and gentler sensory moments. There’s a small surprise for every child who visits the dear Santa on this cherished moment!

Pricing:

Adults: €15

Children: €25

Baby(0-23 months): €15

More info how to book Arigna Mining experience

Tips for a sensory - friendly Christmas at home, out and about, and while travelling

• Choose quieter times for outings, travel and shopping. Early mornings and weekday afternoons are often calmer, as compared to busy evening times.
• Be mindful of noise levels in public places as Christmas music, crowds and festive events can quickly become overwhelming and overstimulating.
• It is best to avoid scheduling too many activities back-to-back. Building in rest time is essential for emotional regulation, in an event of a busy activity-filled day.
• Always plan an exit option when attending social gatherings or events, so your child knows they can leave if needed.
• It’s always mindful to bring comfort support options such as headphones, sunglasses, fidget toys or a familiar item for reassuring the child when needed.

Sensory - friendly Christmas activities to enjoy together

Not all festive fun needs to be loud or busy to be meaningful! Here are some calmer activity ideas many families enjoy:

• Christmas crafts such as decorating ornaments, card-making or sensory-friendly DIY decorations.
• Festive baking with simple, predictable recipes and low-pressure participation.
• Quiet festive films or favourite comfort shows at home.
• Winter walks to view Christmas lights at quieter times.
• Attending sensory-friendly events, such as calm Santa visits or autistic-accessible performances.

How to prepare for Christmas in advance

Preparing for a huge festival like Christmas can often include a lot of stress, anxiety and loud noises. These are some effective ways of reducing anxiety and sensory overload:

• Begin talking about Christmas early, explain what may happen, where you may go and who you might meet.
• Use visual supports such as calendars, countdowns, picture schedules and social stories.
• Show photos or videos of upcoming outings so environments feel familiar, especially when you go to an event.
• Prepare for breaks in routine with quiet days built into the schedule.
• Reassure your child that plans can change if things feel too overwhelming.

How to communicate with your child in a supportive way

Clear, respectful and predictable communication supports emotional safety throughout the festive period.

• Use simple, honest language about what to expect.
• Offer choices over what they want to wear, when to arrive, how long they want to stay at the event etc.
• Agree on a signal or safe word for when they need a break.
• Reassure them often, and say things like, “It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. We can take breaks whenever you need.”

Planning festive outings with sensory needs in mind

Before attending any Christmas event, consider:

• Noise levels
• Lighting conditions
• Crowd size
• Length of time required
• Availability of quiet spaces
• Travel time and transitions

AsIAm features a trusted guide on their website, AsIAm.ie/Christmas which is an excellent resource for families looking to incorporate thoughtful planning, open communication and the right supports into busy Xmas events this year, so that every moment become less overwhelming and far more enjoyable!