Sensory-Friendly Independence Day Celebrations

Parents might not think of fireworks as their go-to activity for their loved ones with sensory needs, but 4th of July should be accessible to everyone. Some cities, towns, and teams are making it possible this year, and for those that aren’t, we have tips and tricks to help bring Independence Day fun to the whole family.

In Central Ohio, both Dublin, New Albany, and Upper Arlington have sensory-friendly offerings during their respective parades, festivals, or fireworks displays. Dublin is offering sensory bags, which can be signed out for the day for free, and include tools like noise-cancelling headphones and other sensory items. They also offer free companion passes for caregivers assisting those with disabilities, but keep in mind that the individual must still pay for the ticket. Guests looking for these accessibility offerings should enter through Gate 2 on Emerald Parkway near the Dublin Coffman High School.

New Albany has their first ever inclusivity zone at the end of the Independence Day Parade near the accessible parking. Parade participants will adjust their performances while in this zone, so expect lower volumes, no bright or flashing lights, no sudden noises, and no items being tossed from floats.

Similarly, Upper Arlington has plans to make their celebrations more accessible. They are partnering with the Red Oak Foundation to host a Diverse Ability Zone, which offers a 50% reduction in volume toward the end of their morning parade. 

In northern Ohio, the Cleveland Guardians has a fun, sensory-friendly opportunity for baseball lovers. On July 4, they play the Detroit Tigers at Progressive Field. As always, Progressive Field offers sensory bags at fan services, but this game also features a special Independence Day firework display at the end of the game. 

But what if your town isn’t offering any sensory-friendly options this Independence Day? Chastity Overholt, a clinic director at Boundless, weighed in with some suggestions for if you don’t want to celebrate at home.

She suggested bringing noise canceling headphones or earplugs if your city isn’t offering them like Dublin is. Fidget toys can also be a helpful part of a sensory toolkit, along with weighted blanket or lap pad, chewable jewelry, or scented calming items. 

Finding a shady spot or bringing an umbrella to create your own can also help reduce overstimulation, not to mention it will help keep the whole family protected against sunburns. Sunglasses can help reduce overstimulation, too. 

To cut help with noise sensitivity, you can watch fireworks from a distance, away from crowds, or even from inside a car. You can also create “a calming playlist to play during loud times as a distraction,” Overholt suggested. She continued, “Download a Fireworks Sound App for Practice. Gradually expose yourself or your child to firework sounds to desensitize and reduce fear through controlled listening.”

And if you decide to venture out to celebrate in your community, be sure to have a safe exit plan. “Identify a quiet space or know where to go if it becomes too much and let family or friends know in advance about your or your loved one’s need for breaks,” Overholt recommended. “Stick to your routine where possible. Maintain regular meals, naps, and downtime, especially for kids.” It may also help to use visual schedules or social stories to guide your loved one through the day.

And ultimately, it’s okay if you celebrate at home! You can watch fireworks displays on TV or a livestream and have full control of the volume. Overholt added, “Have your own celebration with sparklers, bubbles, glow sticks, or projector lights! Do alternatives to traditional fireworks, like a glow stick party (fun for kids and low-sensory), bubble machines, light-up toys, silent fireworks videos online (YouTube has great options), projector lights or fiber optic lamps.”

Whether you’re gathering friends and family at home to celebrate or you’re celebrating out in your community, be sure to communicate sensory needs in advance. “Let your friends and family know about sensitivities and set expectations about participation or quiet time,” Overholt said.

No matter how you choose to celebrate this Independence Day, these community opportunities and tips and tricks can help you and your loved ones navigate a potentially overstimulating day happily and safely.