ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Families looking for a sensory-friendly way to celebrate Halloween can join the Not So Spooky Halloween Party on Saturday morning at We Rock the Spectrum Asheville, an inclusive indoor play gym designed for children of all abilities.
The event will take place from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the gym, 63 Turtle Creek Drive in Asheville. It’s open to children roughly 9 years old and younder, and registration is required in advance through the website or by calling 828-505-7556.
The Halloween celebration will include open playtime in the gym, art projects, gooey sensory play, candy and photo opportunities. The event is not a drop-off activity — parents are required to stay with their children.
“We’re an inclusive space for children of all abilities,” We Rock the Spectrum’s Vanessa Albana said. “Our goal is to create a fun, non-overstimulating environment that supports kids’ sensory needs.”
The gym, part of the We Rock the Spectrum network and supported by the nonprofit My Brother Rocks the Spectrum Foundation, provides year-round programs and social skill activities for neurodiverse children.
About 20 spots are available for the Halloween party. Adults are asked to wear socks in the play area, though children who are sensitive to clothing textures are not required to.
For older children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum, organizers recommend the Arms Around ASD Halloween celebration at Asheville Mall, which offers sensory-safe events for a wider age range.