Why Sensory-Friendly Festivals Matter
Attending a festival can be overwhelming for people with sensory sensitivities – from children on the autism spectrum to adults with PTSD or anxiety. The crowds, loud music, flashing lights, and constant activity can lead to sensory overload. By proactively designing sensory-friendly hours and spaces, festival organisers can create a welcoming environment for neurodivergent attendees and their families. Inclusivity isn’t just the right thing to do – it also expands your audience. Parents of children with autism, for example, often avoid festivals; offering accommodations like quiet zones or relaxed performances can make these families feel comfortable attending. In short, access is design, not a waiver – meaning accessibility should be built into the festival planning from the ground up, rather than treated as an afterthought or special exemption.
Globally, awareness of neurodiversity is growing. Major festivals have started implementing sensory-friendly measures. For instance, large music festivals such as Electric Picnic in Ireland and Glastonbury in the UK now have dedicated sensory-friendly tents for neurodivergent attendees (aisforaoifenotautism.com). Entire events are also being created around inclusivity: Ireland’s autism charity AsIAm launched the Sensoria Festival in Dublin, a free autism-friendly event designed with low crowds and creative sensory activities (from quiet “sensory domes” to therapy dog stations) (rollercoaster.ie). Similarly, the UK’s Spectrum Autism Friendly Festival (running since 2017) and A Different World Festival cater specifically to neurodiverse people – the latter even limits audience size, bans strobe lights and pyrotechnics, and features a “sensory village” with a service dog rest area. These examples show that festivals of all scales can successfully integrate sensory considerations.
As Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm (Ireland’s national autism charity), says: “Everyone deserves the same chance to enjoy the cultural life of our communities” – yet too often, festivals and family days out have left autistic and neurodivergent people behind (rollercoaster.ie). By embracing sensory-friendly design, organisers can ensure no attendee is left out of the experience.
Scheduling Low-Stimulation Hours and Performances
One key strategy is to designate certain times or performances as low-sensory or “relaxed.” During these sensory-friendly hours, the festival intentionally reduces stimuli:
– Lower the volume and intensity – Keep music and sound effects at a gentler level. Avoid abrupt loud noises or thumping bass during this period. Some festivals schedule acoustic sets or “unplugged” performances in the morning geared toward a calmer vibe.
– Soften the lighting – Dimming harsh lights, eliminating strobe effects, and using static or slowly changing lighting can help those with light sensitivity. House lights can be kept partially up (especially for indoor venues) so attendees aren’t in complete darkness, which allows easier movement and reduces anxiety (2020.sydneyfestival.org.au).
– Limit crowd density – If possible, cap the attendance during sensory-friendly hours or use a larger area to allow more space between people. A less crowded environment means less noise and stress. For example, Dublin’s Sensoria festival held two separate sessions in one day specifically to keep crowds to a minimum (rollercoaster.ie).
– Provide flexibility – Allow attendees to freely enter or exit performances during this time without the usual restrictions. Adopting a “relaxed performance” approach (common in theatre) means it’s okay if someone needs to move around, make some noise, or take a break.
It’s wise to schedule these low-stimulation periods at family-friendly times – for instance, early in the day or afternoon – so that parents with sensitive kids can attend before the full blast of the festival kicks in. Some events also dedicate one stage or area as a quiet zone stage featuring gentler acts or sensory-friendly programming. An example is the Spectrum festival in the UK, which includes not just quiet spaces but also autism-friendly activities like sensory workshops and silent discos with controlled sound levels to ensure fun without overload.
When planning your lineup, consider labeling certain shows as “sensory-friendly performances.” Communicate with artists about potentially adjusting their set for those slots – many performers are happy to support accessibility by doing a toned-down set (for instance, a comedian might skip the blaring intro music, or a DJ might keep bass levels moderated). Ultimately, careful scheduling and programming can create pockets of calm in an otherwise high-energy event, allowing neurodiverse attendees to participate more comfortably.
Creating Quiet Spaces and Sensory Rooms
In fact, one festival co-founder – Natasha Duffy of Ireland’s boutique Sofft Nights festival – introduced sensory-friendly areas precisely because she knew festival-goers sometimes need a break from the chaos. After being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, Duffy realized that even when people are “having the absolute mad craic … and doing all the things everybody does” at an event, there comes a point when “there’s a space at the festival, when you need a breakout, to unwind, relax or [re]gulate” (www.irishtimes.com). Taking this to heart, her team created a dedicated sensory haven at Sofft Nights – hanging hammocks in a quiet forested corner, adding gentle lighting and even meditation sessions – so attendees could recharge without ever leaving the fun.
Beyond scheduling gentler performances, it’s essential to provide physical quiet zones or sensory break spaces. These are areas where overstimulated attendees can retreat at any time to relax and recalibrate. Depending on your venue, a quiet space could be a dedicated room, a tent, or a cordoned-off area slightly away from the noise:
– Sensory tents or rooms – Set up one or multiple calm tents/rooms equipped to be low-stimulation environments. For instance, the huge Glastonbury Festival has Sensory Calm Space tents in different locations on site, designed as safe zones with minimal lighting and noise (www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk). Even smaller community festivals can repurpose a meeting room, trailer, or a shady corner as a quiet room.
– Sound dampening and lighting – Use rugs, fabric, or acoustic panels in indoor rooms or tents to muffle outside sound. Lighting should be soft and adjustable – think gently diffused lamps or string lights instead of bright fluorescents. Some festivals use colored calm lighting (like a blue or gentle green hue) which can be soothing compared to stark white lights.
– Comfortable furnishings – Provide soft seating and cozy spots. Bean bag chairs, floor cushions, or couches give people a place to literally chill out. At the Sydney Festival in Australia, for example, relaxed performances offered a “chill-out area” with beanbags in the foyer for anyone needing a break (2020.sydneyfestival.org.au). Similarly, Ireland’s Wander Wild outdoor festival set up an autism-friendly Quiet Zone stocked with bean bag seating and fidget toys (a simple chill-out tent where families could escape the bustle).
– Sensory aids on hand – Stock these spaces with fidget toys, stress balls, and sensory objects that attendees can use to self-soothe. Simple items like squishy balls, fidget spinners, or textured strips can help focus sensory input in a calming way. Many events also offer weighted lap pads or blankets in their calm rooms – Glastonbury’s sensory tents even provide weighted blankets and noise-cancelling ear defenders for people to use.
– Privacy and space – Make sure the area isn’t crowded; it defeats the purpose if a “quiet room” is packed with people. Limit capacity if needed, or create multiple small quiet nooks. Include a few partitions or corner dividers where someone can sit semi-privately if they just need to be alone for a moment (some might even pull a hoodie over their eyes – giving them a little corner helps).
– Calming activities – Consider providing very low-key activities or sensory materials: coloring books and crayons, noise-cancelling headphones, or a small sensory play station (like a bin of sand or tactile objects) for kids. Keep these optional and off to the side so the space remains tranquil. The idea is to offer ways to decompress, not to create a second festival within the room.
Crucially, advertise where and how to access these quiet zones. Use clear signage on-site (with universally recognized symbols for “quiet” or “low-sensory” areas) and mark the locations on your festival map and app. At Wander Wild Festival in Ireland, for example, the organisers printed special symbols on all venue maps to help attendees find the Quiet Zone easily. Make sure security and staff know the quiet room locations too, so if they see someone struggling, they can gently guide them there.
Providing Sensory Aids and Comfort Items
To complement your quiet spaces, proactively provide sensory aids throughout the festival. Small accommodations can make a big difference in comfort:
– Free ear protection – Hand out foam earplugs at entrances or info booths so anyone can use them when sound levels spike. For family events, you might keep a stock of protective earmuffs for children. Many neurodiverse attendees bring their own noise-cancelling headphones, but having spares shows goodwill.
– Fidget kits – Consider offering “sensory kits” at your accessibility or information desk containing a few fidgets and earplugs. Some festivals partner with nonprofits (like KultureCity in the U.S. or local autism societies) to obtain sensory toolkits. These kits can be loaned out or given to those who request them. For instance, a kit might include a small handheld fidget toy, a pair of sunglasses (for light sensitivity), and a communication card or notepad for nonverbal attendees.
– Weighted items and blankets – As mentioned, weighted lap pads or shoulder wraps can help anxious attendees feel grounded. You can provide these in calm rooms or even have a few available at medical/welfare tents. Make sure they are clearly labeled and kept clean between uses.
– Quiet corners around the site – If your festival grounds are large, set up a few mini “relaxation stations” aside from the main designated sensory room. This could be as simple as a pop-up canopy with floor mats or a couple of benches under a tree marked as a quiet spot. Having multiple options means someone on the verge of sensory overload doesn’t have to trek far to find relief.
– Medical and family needs – Be mindful that some attendees might use these quiet spaces for other needs too (for example, administering medication or a parent calming an infant). Design them to be flexible and comfortable for anyone in need of a reprieve.
By providing tools and comfort items openly, you normalize their use. When a child is seen happily squeezing a stress ball or an adult in the crowd is wearing ear defenders, it sends a message that your festival accepts and welcomes neurodiversity. In contrast, if people have to “get by” without these aids, they might end up leaving early or avoiding the event altogether. Empower attendees with options to manage their sensory experience – it leads to happier guests and a more inclusive atmosphere.
Training Staff on Neurodiversity & Respectful Assistance
Even the best physical accommodations can fall flat if your staff and volunteers aren’t on board. Training your festival team in neurodiversity awareness and respectful customer service is critical. This ensures that when neurodivergent attendees arrive, they encounter understanding and help instead of confusion or stigma. Key training points include:
– Understanding neurodiversity – Educate staff on what it means to be autistic, have ADHD, or have other sensory processing differences. Emphasize that these are normal variations in how people experience the world. Use resources or invite local experts to bust myths and share basic dos and don’ts. (For example, explain that not every autistic person has the same sensitivities, and avoid stereotypes.) The goal is to foster empathy and patience.
– Communication skills – Train staff to speak and act in ways that are helpful for anxious or sensitive guests. This means using a calm, gentle tone of voice and clear, simple language. Staff should know not to touch or grab a person who is overwhelmed (unless it’s an emergency) and to avoid shouting or using whistles around someone who may have sensory issues.
– Identifying overload and meltdowns – Help the team recognize signs of sensory overload or an autistic meltdown versus, say, a disruptive attendee. If a guest is covering their ears, rocking, or looking visibly distressed, staff should approach in a non-threatening way and ask if they need assistance or would like to be escorted to a quiet area. Security and medical personnel especially should learn de-escalation techniques that are autism-friendly (e.g. giving the person space, reducing surrounding noise and lights, offering water or a calm space) rather than immediately treating the situation as misbehavior.
– Knowledge of accommodations – Every staff member should know what sensory-friendly resources your festival offers. They must be able to point out where the quiet rooms are, where earplugs can be found, and what times are designated as low-sensory. At minimum, ensure key frontline teams (information booth volunteers, the accessibility/access team, medical staff, and security supervisors) have a quick-reference sheet. For example, the Spectrum Autism Friendly Festival in England makes sure staff are fully trained about autism and are ready to guide attendees to quiet spaces or provide assistance as needed. Likewise, the team behind Ireland’s Wander Wild Festival had members complete training with AsIAm (Autism Ireland) ahead of the event (wanderwildfestival.com), so volunteers could confidently support autistic children and adults on-site.
– Respect and inclusivity – Emphasize that all guests should be treated with respect, and remind staff that many disabilities are “invisible.” Stimming behaviors (like hand-flapping, rocking, or repeating phrases) are coping mechanisms for many autistic people; staff should understand these are not threatening or “weird,” just different ways of handling excitement or stress. The festival’s culture should discourage any teasing or judgmental attitudes. Instead, encourage a mindset of “How can we help everyone have a great time?” If a neurodivergent person is engaging in behavior that isn’t harmful, staff should simply ensure they’re safe (and perhaps offer assistance or a quiet space if the person appears to be in distress, not because the behavior is “odd” but because they might be overwhelmed).
Investing in staff training can be done in partnership with local organizations that specialize in neurodiversity or autism. It could be an in-person workshop, an online course, or even a handbook developed with expert input. The important thing is to create a team that is knowledgeable and compassionate. A well-trained crew creates an atmosphere of safety and acceptance. In fact, many neurodiverse attendees (and parents of kids with special needs) will often ask organizers in advance about what accommodations and awareness are in place. Being able to say, “Yes, our staff have undergone neurodiversity training, and we will have accessibility volunteers on site,” builds trust and can be the deciding factor for a family on the fence about attending.
Communicating Sensory Information and Warnings
Transparency is vital. To truly welcome neurodiverse audiences, you should publish sensory content warnings and information across all your channels. This lets people know exactly what to expect and helps them plan accordingly. Here’s how to communicate effectively:
– Detailed accessibility info page – On your festival website (and ticketing pages), include a section about sensory-friendly accommodations. List the availability of quiet rooms or chill-out tents, note if any performances will be designated “relaxed” or adapted, and mention any general policies (for example, “No strobe lighting will be used at Stage B,” or “Fireworks display at 10 PM will include loud bangs”). Glastonbury’s official site, for instance, clearly describes the presence of sensory calm tents and what’s provided inside them (www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk). Providing this info upfront not only helps those who need it but also signals to all patrons that you value accessibility.
– Pre-event emails and guides – Send an email to all ticket holders before the festival highlighting accessibility features, including the sensory-friendly measures. Outline where and when the quiet spaces and low-sensory hours are available. Some festivals prepare a “social story” or visual guide — a simple downloadable guide with photos and descriptions — to help neurodivergent attendees (especially children) rehearse the festival experience in advance. This might show what the entrances look like, how crowded it might be, what the stages and quiet areas look like, and who to ask for help. Providing such a guide can greatly reduce anxiety for families as they know what to expect.
– Sensory warnings in schedules – If your program or schedule listings mention specific performances or attractions, add icons or notes for sensory intensity. For example, mark shows that will contain strobe lighting effects, or note if a DJ set is expected to be very loud. Conversely, clearly label the relaxed performances or family-friendly quiet sessions. Ensure these labels appear wherever the schedule is published (website, mobile app, printed flyers on-site). By warning about potential triggers (like flashing lights or sudden fireworks), you allow sensitive attendees to make informed decisions about what to attend or to use ear/eye protection.
– On-site signage and announcements – At the event, use signage to remind everyone of the sensory-friendly amenities. Directional signs should point toward the Quiet Zone or sensory room. At stage entrances, you could post a notice if strobe lights will be used, or something like “Sensory Tip: This stage is loud – grab free earplugs at the Info Tent.” Periodic public-address announcements or messages on video screens can also advertise the existence of quiet spaces (e.g. “Need a break? Visit the Calm Tent near the west gate for a low-sensory environment.”). Make these announcements friendly and inclusive in tone.
– Multi-channel outreach – Consistency is key. Promote your sensory-friendly features on social media and in any press releases about the festival. For instance, when marketing to families, highlight that you offer a safe space for children who might be sensitive to noise. If you have partners (like an autism charity or sponsor helping with the sensory room), coordinate with them to spread the word through their networks too. The more people know about your efforts, the more trust and goodwill you build among communities that historically felt unwelcome at such events.
The language you use in communication matters. Frame these accommodations as positive enhancements, not as inconveniences or special treatment. Avoid phrasing like “Warning: Not suitable for autistic people” – instead, say “Sensory-sensitive guests: we’ve got you covered with X, Y, Z.” The aim is to reassure attendees that the festival is prepared for them. When people see that a festival has clearly thought about sensory needs, they feel an instant sense of relief and appreciation. It shows that the organisers want them there.
Finally, encourage feedback. Let attendees know you are open to hearing about their experience regarding accessibility. Provide a quick way for them to share what worked and what could be improved (for example, a post-event survey or an email contact for accessibility feedback). By listening and adapting, you’ll improve each year and continue to set a standard for inclusivity in festivals.
Designing Accessibility from the Start
The mantra “access is design, not a waiver” underlines that inclusion should be ingrained in the festival’s design process. Rather than adding a quiet tent at the last minute or simply warning neurodivergent people about a difficult environment, plan your event with accessibility in mind from day one. Here are some design-stage considerations:
– Site layout – When choosing or laying out your venue, factor in a location for calm spaces that is convenient yet out of the fray. Ideally, quiet areas should be reasonably close to the action (so they’re easy to reach when someone is nearing overload) but physically shielded from direct noise. For example, placing a sensory room in a solid-structure building or behind a cluster of food trucks (anything that buffers sound) can help. If your event is outdoors in a wide-open field, you might situate the quiet tent behind a small hill or at the end of a row of vendors to give it some natural sound insulation.
– Infrastructure & budget – Include accessibility features in your budget and infrastructure planning. Allocate funds for things like sensory tents, additional signage, and staff training right from the start. If you’re renting stages, tents, or equipment, inquire about options that could help (for instance, some event rental companies offer small enclosed pods or trailers that can serve as instant sensory rooms). Budgeting early for these items ensures they don’t get cut later. It also sends a signal to your team and sponsors that sensory inclusion is a priority, not an optional add-on.
– Collaboration – Involve experts or community members in the planning phase. Consult with autism advocacy groups or individuals with sensory sensitivities to review your festival plans. They may point out design elements that could be problematic (e.g. a gate with too many flashing lights, or a children’s area located too close to a loud stage). Their input is invaluable. For reference, some events are built entirely around accessibility (from the National Theatre of Scotland’s Neurostages festival to the Inclusion Festival in Pennsylvania, USA), but even mainstream events can follow suit. The Sofft Nights team in Ireland proved that a general music festival can successfully curate additional sensory areas for neurodiversity within a larger event (www.irishtimes.com).
– Policy and philosophy – Develop a clear accessibility policy that includes sensory inclusion, and make sure all departments understand it. If you have an Accessibility Coordinator or team, involve them in all major decisions – from stage production choices to vendor placement – to assess their impact on sensory accessibility. Set philosophy guidelines like, “We will avoid using strobe lighting unless essential to an act’s artistic presentation, and even then we will warn and provide alternatives.” When booking performers or programming activities, strive for a balance that includes some gentler options for those who need them.
– Testing and rehearsal – Before opening day, do a thorough walkthrough focusing on sensory factors. Turn on the sound systems and lights and stand in the quiet zone – is it still calm, or do you need to adjust the setup? Have staff simulate scenarios: what if a family asks for noise-cancelling headphones – do volunteers know where to find them? What if an autistic teenager goes missing in the crowd – is security prepared on how to communicate and help? Running through these drills will reveal any gaps and build confidence in your team. It’s similar to a soundcheck or fire drill, but for accessibility.
– Continuous improvement – Treat accessibility design as an ongoing process. Each festival edition, gather notes on what worked and what didn’t. Perhaps the quiet room was too far away last time – next time, you might place two smaller tents in different areas. Or maybe you learned that the morning “quiet hour” was a hit but the afternoon one wasn’t used – adjust accordingly. Share knowledge with other festival producers as well; the more the industry collaborates on best practices, the better experiences will be for everyone.
Designing with accessibility in mind benefits more than just neurodivergent attendees – it tends to improve the experience for all guests. Parents with infants appreciate a chill-out spot, older adults can enjoy a break from standing in crowds, and even the most die-hard music fans sometimes need a breather from the sensory onslaught. By normalizing these options, you create a festival culture where taking care of oneself is encouraged and accepted. And that, ultimately, builds loyalty and positive word-of-mouth: people remember that your festival made them feel safe and included.
Key Takeaways for Sensory-Friendly Festival Planning
- Offer Sensory-Friendly Time Slots: Set aside times with lower volume, softer lighting, and smaller crowds. These “relaxed” periods let those with sensory sensitivities enjoy performances in a comfortable setting.
- Provide Quiet Zones: Create dedicated calm spaces (tents or rooms) away from the hustle. Equip them with comfortable seating (bean bags, hammocks, etc.), gentle lighting, and sound insulation so overwhelmed guests can recover in peace.
- Stock Sensory Aids: Have fidget toys, stress balls, and weighted lap pads available for attendees. Offer free earplugs and clearly mark where noise-cancelling headphones or other aids can be obtained – small tools can greatly reduce anxiety.
- Train Your Team: Educate all staff and volunteers on neurodiversity and how to assist guests respectfully. A knowledgeable, compassionate staff can prevent issues and ensure neurodiverse attendees feel genuinely welcome and safe.
- Communicate Clearly: Advertise your sensory-friendly features on all channels. Provide content warnings (for loud or intense elements) in schedules, and use signage and pre-event guides to help people navigate the event with confidence.
- Design for Inclusion from Day One: Integrate accessibility into your planning. Choose venues and layouts that accommodate quiet areas, allocate budget for sensory accommodations, and involve experts or neurodiverse individuals in your design process. Accessibility isn’t an add-on – it’s part of the festival’s core design philosophy.
By implementing these strategies, festival organisers can vastly improve the experience for neurodivergent attendees and indeed for everyone. A truly family-friendly festival is one that recognises and respects the diverse needs of its audience. When you design with sensory inclusion in mind, you create an event where everyone can participate in the magic of the festival – and that’s a success worth celebrating.
22nd September 2025