November 28th & 29th, 2026 The Farm House, Eden NC

Sensory-Friendly Santa

Registration Opens This Fall
A woman and a young boy sitting on a gray sofa with white pillows, smiling at the camera, with Santa Claus standing behind them. The background is decorated for Christmas with a decorated tree, ornaments, and festive signs.
Three children in Christmas pajamas decorating a wall with Christmas trees made of paper and felt, along with holiday decorations. Two children are kneeling, and one is standing, reaching to place or adjust a decoration on the paper Christmas tree. There is a Thanksgiving or Christmas sign on the wall that says 'Merry & Bright' with seasonal decorations.
A table with Christmas-themed items including cups, a sign that reads 'Old Fashioned Hot Cocoa Served Here,' a jar of white marshmallows, wrapped treats, and red and green decorations.

Creating a Christmas tradition where every child can experience the magic of Santa—at their own pace.

About the Event

For many autism families, traditional holiday events can be overwhelming. Long lines, loud music, bright lights, and crowded spaces often make it difficult for children to enjoy what should be a magical experience.

Our Sensory-Friendly Santa event was created to change that.

Families are welcomed into a calm, relaxed environment where children can meet Santa without the stress and pressure of a traditional holiday setting. Every child is free to interact in whatever way feels most comfortable—whether that's sitting on Santa's lap, standing nearby, giving a high five, or simply taking in the moment from a distance.

What Makes it Different?

🎅 One-on-one visits with Santa

📸 Complimentary professional photos

⏰ Scheduled appointment times

🔕 Calm, sensory-friendly environment

❤️ No pressure or expectations

🎄 A welcoming experience for the entire family

Why it Matters?

Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and wonder of Christmas.

For many autism families, holiday traditions can feel out of reach because environments are simply too overwhelming. Sensory-Friendly Santa creates a space where children can be themselves, families can relax, and magical memories can be made without fear of judgment or unrealistic expectations.

Sometimes the greatest gift isn't the photo—it's seeing a child experience Christmas in a way that feels safe, comfortable, and joyful.

Looking Ahead

We're excited to announce that Sensory-Friendly Santa will return on November 28 & 29, 2026, at The Farm House in Eden!

Planning is already underway to make this year's event even more magical for the families we serve. Registration will open this fall, and appointments fill quickly, so be sure to follow us on social media or join our mailing list for announcements and registration details.

We can't wait to welcome your family and continue this special holiday tradition!

Every child deserves to experience the magic of Christmas—exactly as they are.

A decorated Christmas tree with ornaments and ribbons next to a wooden fireplace mantel with holiday decor, a blue velvet armchair with a white pillow, and holiday signs and gift bags.

Holiday Memories

A woman and a young girl with curly hair looking at a decorated felt Christmas tree on the wall, with ornaments including a gift box, candy cane, and snowflakes.
A woman kneeling in front of a young boy at a Christmas party, reaching for the table filled with holiday treats and gifts, decorated with Christmas-themed items.
A young boy standing behind a wooden table decorated with Christmas items, including two felt Christmas trees, holiday books, and toys, with a window in the background.
A young girl with a ponytail wearing a floral dress is kneeling on the wooden floor, reaching towards a small green Christmas tree-shaped toy with a yellow star on top, in a room with wooden flooring and paper holiday decorations on the wall.

Help Keep the Magic Alive

Sensory-Friendly Santa is more than a holiday tradition—it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact. Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, and donation made helps Acts 4 Autism continue providing programs, sensory-friendly events, and resources for individuals with autism and their families throughout the year.

Whether you attend the event, become a sponsor, or make a donation, you're helping create opportunities for connection, inclusion, and support that extend far beyond the holiday season.

Ways You Can Help

  • 🎅 Register – Create unforgettable holiday memories while supporting our mission.

  • 🤝 Become a Sponsor – Showcase your business while helping make this special event possible.

  • 💙 Make a Donation – Every gift helps us continue serving local autism families year-round.

Together, we can keep the magic alive not just at Christmas, but all year long.

  • "This was the first time my 8 year old son got to experience santa

    Parent who attended our Sensory-Friendly Santa

  • "Im so thankful for the allotted time my child was able to spend with Santa uninterrupted. We were not RUSHED and enjoyed every activity offered. The volunteers were amazing and every detail was thoughtful planned and executed."

    Parent who attended our Sensory-Friendly Santa

  • "I could go on and on about how incredible this experience was for my family and especially my son. This event was so thought out and so inclusive for our babies with different abilities."

    Parent who attended our Sensory-Friendly Santa

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Registration is required, and appointment times are reserved in advance to provide every family with a calm, unhurried experience.

Do I need to register?

Yes. Ticket pricing will be announced when registration opens this fall. Proceeds from Sensory-Friendly Santa directly support Acts 4 Autism's programs, events, and initiatives, helping us continue serving individuals with autism and their families throughout the year.

Is there a cost?

Each family will receive two complimentary professional photos, with the option to purchase additional images directly from our photographer.

How many photos are included?

Absolutely! We encourage the entire family to be part of the experience. Siblings are welcome to join in the photos with Santa.

Can siblings be in the photos?

What if my child doesn't want to sit with Santa?

That's perfectly okay! Our Santa understands that every child is different. Whether your child wants to sit on Santa's lap, stand nearby, give a high five, wave from a distance, or simply observe, we'll meet them where they are. There are no expectations and no pressure.

Can grandparents or other family members join us?

Yes! Immediate family members are welcome to join the experience and be included in photos if desired.

That's perfectly okay! We understand that every child is different, and our volunteers and Santa are committed to meeting each child where they are. Our goal is to create a comfortable experience without rushing your family.

What if my child needs extra time?

We're proud to partner with Madelynn Lett Photography, who beautifully captures each family's visit with Santa. Every session is photographed with patience, care, and an understanding that every child is unique. Professional photos will be available following the event, with details shared during registration.

Who takes the photos?