Sensory-Friendly Winter Events

As we kick off the new year, finding inclusive, welcoming experiences for individuals with sensory sensitivities is more important than ever. Across Ohio, organizations are stepping up to create sensory-friendly events that prioritize comfort, accessibility, and meaningful engagement for people of all ages. Whether you’re a family looking for a low-stress outing, an adult seeking inclusive community experiences, or a caregiver planning ahead, these events make it easy to participate!

Below is a curated list of sensory-friendly events happening January through March as we move into 2026.

Columbus, OH

Adaptive Adventures: Sensory Storytime (Jan 14, 2026) - Inclusive story time with tactile activities + craft at Blendon Woods Inclusive Playground. (Metro Parks - Central Ohio Park System)

Columbus Zoo Monthly Quiet Hours (Mar 1 & beyond) - Reduced-sound sensory-friendly hours on the first Sunday of each month. The Zoo also offers sensory bags and maps for calmer visits any day.  (Columbus Zoo and Aquarium)

COSI Sensory Supports - Calming room + sensory planning tools available anytime you visit. (COSI)

AMC Sensory Friendly Films -  Lights up, sound down movie showings offered regularly at local AMC theaters. (AMC Sensory Friendly)

Cleveland, OH

Sensory Hour at Greater Cleveland Aquarium (Jan 24, 2026) - Early morning session with quieter sounds designed for guests with sensory processing differences. (Northeast Ohio Parent)

Sensory-Friendly Saturdays at Cleveland Museum of Art (Jan–Mar) - Monthly sensory-adapted museum experience every 3rd Saturday from 9:00–10:00 a.m. (reduced noise/crowds). (Cleveland Museum of Art)

Ongoing Weekly/Biweekly Sensory Programs (various locations) - Including playgroups and comfort spaces at libraries and museums throughout the region. (The CLE Family Collective)

Playhouse Square Sensory Programming - Sensory-friendly theater events in downtown Cleveland (dates vary). (playhousesquare.org)
 

Dayton, OH

Billy Goats Gruff & Other Tales — Sensory Inclusive Performance (Jan 25, 2026) - Judgment-free, sensory-friendly theatre at Victoria Theatre. (Dayton Live)

Sensory Friendly Magic Performance (Mar 29, 2026) - Calmer stage show with reduced noise/light at Victoria Theatre. (Dayton Live)

All Abilities Adventure at Dayton Metro Library - Inclusive craft/sensory stations (ongoing). (dayton.bibliocommons.com)

Sensory Sundays — Boonshoft Museum of Discovery (2026 Dates TBD) - Reduced-stimulus mornings with sensory supports available. (Boonshoft)

AMC Sensory Friendly Films - Lights up, sound down movie showings offered regularly at local AMC theaters. (AMC Sensory Friendly)