| Blog
| Blog
22 October 2025
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 Halloween, we’re highlighting a range of Autism-friendly events happening across the country to help families enjoy Halloween this season.
Liskennett Equine Assisted Activity Centre, Granagh, Co. Limerick, V35 X242
Pick your pumpkin, listen to some spooky stories, enjoy some festive treats and take a walk on their sensory Halloween trail.
The farm opens at 10am and closes at 6pm. Tickets are sold online only.
Family Ticket €35. See how to book the tickets.
Various Locations in Carlow, Delta Sensory Gardens, Strawhall Industrial Estate, Strawhall, Carlow, R93 Y959
From Monday, 20 October to Sunday, 02 November, the Samhain festival expands across five stunning venues in Carlow, ensuring every soul, whether living or otherwise, can take part. You can expect a program rich with:
Fire and Light Spectaculars: The festival is set to kick off with a dazzling Fire Night featuring world-class fire performers and pyrotechnics, lighting up the magnificent grounds of Carlow College and VISUAL, the festival’s central hub.
Haunting Happenings: Duckett’s Grove will invite the brave to uncover its haunted secrets, while The Exchange promises Halloween Mayhem.
The Library will host events dedicated to old stories that simply “never stay buried for long.” for Adults and a series of child friendly events throughout the midterm.
Family-Friendly Enchantment: At the Delta Centre’s Sensory Gardens, the beautiful pathways will be transformed into a gently haunted landscape for “Ghosts in the Gardens.” This sensory-friendly experience features ghostly figures from Irish folklore and live theatre from the acclaimed Barnstorm Theatre Company.
Art, Music, and Myth: VISUAL will host immersive experiences, including chilling film screenings (like the Irish-language horror An Taibhse), experimental folk music, and a Deadly Disco on the Family Fun Day.
This Halloween mid-term, Fota Wildlife Park has lots of spooky fun and wild adventures in store for all the family!
Fota Wildlife Park, Cork
Until Sunday, 26 October 2025 inclusive:
Winter Opening Times from Monday, 27 October 2025 – Friday, 30 January 2026:
With fun and educational activities and animal feeding times, Fota Wildlife Park is the perfect place to spend your Halloween break in 2025!
Opt for comfort: Select costumes made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton.
Avoid triggers: Skip costumes with itchy tags, tight-fitting elements, or accessories that may cause discomfort.
Consider alternatives: Use themed t-shirts, pyjamas, or adaptive costumes designed for children with sensory needs.
Practice in advance: Let your child try on their costume beforehand to ensure they feel good in it.
Create sensory bins: Fill bins with Halloween-themed items like dried corn, plastic spiders, and small pumpkins for a calming sensory experience.
Engage in sensory play: Explore activities like slime-making, Oobleck, or Halloween-themed playdough.
Use sensory bottles: Fill plastic bottles with water, glitter, and Halloween trinkets for a calming visual stimulus.
Organise alternative trick-or-treating: Instead of neighbourhood trick-or-treating, create a treasure hunt at home, or have a family movie night.
Limit overwhelming stimuli: Be mindful of excessive lights, noise, or crowded environments when going out or decorating your home.
Communicate with your child: Ask them what they are comfortable with regarding costumes and activities.
Rehearse the routine: Practice the trick-or-treating experience with your child, including what to say and how to signal they are ready to leave.
Prepare neighbours and friends: Inform them about how to make the experience sensory-friendly, such as by providing treats to children in cars or being flexible with interactions.
Don't be afraid to adapt: Make the holiday fit your child's needs. A smaller event or staying home can be just as fun and more enjoyable than a large, overwhelming celebration.
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