Creating Safer Celebrations: Supporting Autistic Individuals During Fiesta Season and Beyond
- Katie Benson
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
In San Antonio, spring brings color, music, and community joy through Fiesta—a city-wide celebration filled with parades, cascarones, food, and fun. But for many autistic individuals and their families, these vibrant events can also present real challenges. At Autism Community Network, we believe that joyful traditions should be for everyone—and with the right support, they can be.
Whether you’re a caregiver preparing for a large event, or an organizer hoping to make your space more inclusive, here are tips and ideas to help everyone feel seen, supported, and safe
Why Sensory Safety Matters
Community celebrations often involve bright lights, crowded walkways, unexpected noises, and unpredictable schedules. While this excitement may be energizing for some, it can be overwhelming or distressing for autistic children and adults. Recognizing these sensory and social differences is the first step toward building a more inclusive environment.
Tips for Families and Caregivers
🎭 Plan Ahead: Review event maps, photos, and schedules with your child. Knowing what to expect reduces stress and helps everyone feel more in control.
🎧 Pack a Sensory Toolkit: Bring noise-reducing headphones, fidgets, snacks, sunglasses, or whatever helps your loved one feel calm and regulated. Many events now offer Sensory Kits— look for them or check with organizers ahead of time. Also allowing your child extended sensory time before leaving for the event can help with regulation outside of the home.
📍 Locate Safe Spaces: Before the festivities begin, scout out potential quiet zones or designated sensory spaces. Use those areas as needed to take breaks from the crowd.
📃 Use Visuals and Scripts: Create a simple visual schedule or social narrative to walk through what will happen at the event. Practice scripts for common interactions or sensory surprises (like confetti or music).
🚪 Have an Exit Strategy: Decide in advance what to do if things become overwhelming. Where will you go? Who will help? Having a plan provides comfort and clarity.
🧍♂️ Assign a Buddy: Wandering can be a concern. Assign a trusted adult or sibling to stay close. Consider wearing matching outfits or bracelets for easy identification.
Extra Tips for Fiesta Season
🌸 Bring a familiar item like a favorite water bottle, small plush, or Fiesta medal—something comforting amid the novelty.
🥁 Look for early morning or weekday events that are often less crowded and overstimulating.
🪅 Parades? Find a spot near the start, where wait times are shorter and the crowd thinner.🌞 Remember: hydration and shade matter too! Regulation isn’t just about senses—it’s about comfort.
Tips for Event Organizers
✅ Offer a Sensory-Safe Zone: Set up a quiet tent or room with low lighting and soft seating for breaks. Label it clearly with signage.
✅ Train Your Volunteers: Equip your staff and volunteers with awareness training on sensory needs, different types of communication, and respectful support.
✅ Use Visual Aids: Maps with clear icons, visual schedules, or color-coded areas help guests navigate your event with confidence.
✅ Reduce Wait Times: Fast passes, early-entry options, or flexible registration lines can help families access the fun without the stress.
✅ Collaborate with Local Experts: Autism Community Network offers community coaching and can help evaluate your event layout or staffing approach through a neurodiversity-affirming lens.
And If It’s Still Not a Fit…
Sometimes, even with the best accommodations, the timing just isn’t right. That’s okay. Your family’s needs come first. You’re not missing out—you’re protecting joy.
💚 Follow Autism Community Network on Instagram, Facebook, and Eventbrite to find upcoming sensory-friendly and relationally safe events all year long—from quiet Fiesta crafts to our signature Fam Jam gatherings. You belong here.
From all of us at ACN, we wish you a safe, joyful, and inclusive Fiesta season! ¡Viva Fiesta! 🎉
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