The holiday season can be a wonderful time to celebrate as a family, but if you have one or more children that are sensitive to sounds, lights, or large crowds, it can become challenging to find holiday activities that work for everyone. Fortunately, there are a few sensory friendly holiday activities in the Kansas City metro that are specifically tailored to you and your loved ones.
Sensory Friendly Holiday Performances in Kansas City
Kansas City Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
6 p.m., December 5
Available for one showing, the sensory friendly Nutcracker performance is for families, and adults with sensory sensitivities, autism spectrum disorder, or other special needs. This includes:
- Reduced sound levels, including loud and surprising noises
- House lights will remain half-lit
- Relaxed house rules…freedom to get up and move around, use of electronic devices is permitted, and permission to talk freely during the performance
- Designated quiet spaces will be available throughout the evening
- Trained staff, ushers, and volunteers to assist
In addition, the Kauffman will provide accessible seating and parking, assistive listening devices, courtesy wheelchairs, family restroom changing areas as well as a relaxing Serenity room that provides a private area with comfortable seating, a television to watch the performance as well as sensory items and dimmable lights.
The show runs two hours with an intermission. Tickets are $25 and can be ordered by calling 816-931-8993.
Finding Nemo (TYA)
10 a.m., December 6
2 pm., December 7
The Coterie at Crown Center
With the classic Disney movie “Finding Nemo” brought to life on stage, The Coterie Theater offers two sensory friendly showings, one afternoon and one evening. Sensory Friendly Performances for neurodiverse audiences featuring technical adjustments, sensory supports, house lights on and flexible audience expectations. These performances will also have audio described performances for those who are visually impaired. Tickets are $14-18/ticket. Purchase online or at (816) 474-6552.
Sensory Friendly Holiday Activities in Kansas City
Electric Glow at the Overland Park Arboretum
Dec. 3,4,10,11,17,18,20,21,23,26,27,28,30 from 5-9 pm (last entry at 8 p.m.)
8909 W. 179th St.
Overland Park, KS 66013 
If your children enjoy the bright lights of the season, but not the loud noises and crowds, Electric Glow provides a low-key version of the Luminary Walk where there are no musicians, trains running, or crowds. Capacity is limited, allowing for a quieter setting to wander and enjoy the lights. The cafe will be open selling hot beverages and snacks as well as adult beverages. Tickets are $12/person, children 5 and under free. Tickets available online or call 913-322-6467.
Holiday Events at Inspired Play Cafe
Overland Park, KS and Merriam, KS
$20/child for single day pass, all events included
With two locations in Overland Park and Merriam, Inspired Play Cafe provides several holiday events for children of all abilities. Events are capped at 20 participants as well as lower lighting and close parking. It is a great option for kids with special needs wanting to celebrate the holidays. The offerings include:
Holiday Slime with Santa – Dec. 7, Overland Park
Play Time with Mr. Grinch – Dec. 14, Overland Park
Creative Explorations with Santa – Dec. 20, both locations
Play and Private Photos with Santa – Dec. 21, both locations
Cookies and Storytime with Santa – Dec. 23, both locations
New Years Balloon Drop + Glow Party – Dec. 31, both locations
For more information or to sign up online, or call 913-416-5845. Spaces will fill up quickly!
Jingle Kansas City Sensory Night
December 5
$34/adult, $26/3-17, free under 2
Legends Field
1800 Village West Pkwy
Kansas City, KS 66111
The most highly sought after and anticipated holiday event of Kansas City is here and is featuring a sensory evening on December 5. From 4:30-6:30 p.m., the volume will be lowered and lights dimmed to create a more relaxing experience for families. In addition, attendance will be limited for a calmer experience. Tickets are available online.
ASN North Kansas City Holiday Party
10 a.m. – 1 p.m., December 14
10502 N Ambassador Dr., Ste 201
Kansas City, MO 64153
Hosted by Autism Support Now, bring the whole family to celebrate with hot cocoa, snacks, holiday crafts, games, and a visit from Santa. Admission is free, but donations to Ronald McDonald House Charities are encouraged.
Sensory Santa Experiences in Kansas City
Sensory Santa – Lenexa
Sunday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
SOAR Special Needs
12201 W 88th St. Lenexa, KS 66215
This Santa event includes the following:
- 20-minute appointment time including a low light, sensory friendly atmosphere.
- One item that the participant will craft with the support of Santa’s Helpers. This craft item can be for them or can be used as a gift for someone else.
- One holiday gift for registered participant chosen from Santa’s Toy Box.
- Photo with Santa. You can also request a photo without Santa. The whole family can join in the photo, if desired. Photos will be emailed.
Tickets are limited and cost $20/main participant, $10 each additional participant. Register online to pick your time.
Sensory Friendly Santa Photos at Zona Rosa
Sunday, Dec. 1 and Sunday, Dec. 8, from 11 a.m.-noon
The Grove at Zona Rosa (8600 N. Dixson Ave)
They will be offering sensory friendly Santa Photos on two dates this holiday season in Santa’s Winter Wondering. Children with sensory sensitivities can visit with Santa in a calm, quiet setting one hour before the set opens to the general public. A $20 deposit is required per group, and all money will be applied to your photo or digital download purchase. Tickets available online.
Sensory Friendly Santa Experience – Shawnee
Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m.-noon
The Shawnee Civic Centre, Shawnee, KS
Waiting in line to see The Man in the Red Suit is often a challenge for little ones with sensory needs. They’ve arranged for Santa to make a special stop at the Shawnee Civic Centre for just that reason! You’ll schedule your time for a private visit and photo with Santa, and then enjoy some holiday treats and winter activities in our semi-private North Pole Lounge! Slots fill up fast and registration is necessary. Tickets available online.
Sensory Santa Photo Event – Leawood
Sunday, Dec. 1, noon-6 p.m.
Jordan Photography at Town Center Plaza
5244 West 119th St. Leawood, KS 66209
The Autism Society of the Heartland presents this free event. Parents can sign up for one 10-minute appointment for your child/children and their family to visit Santa in a private, stress free environment. You will receive access to your photos for free and they will be emailed to you. In addition, during registration, you can provide your child’s name and holiday wish list in advance and Santa will read these in advance before photos! Registration is required and available online.
Sensory Santa – Overland Park
December 8 from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
7050 W. 107th St. Ste 110
Overland Park, KS 66212
Hosted by Aspire Behavioral Solutions, participants will have their own time with Santa, picture opportunities, and treats. Reservations required and available online.
