Many precious summer memories start on Independence Day. This holiday commemorating the ratification of the Declaration of Independence is synonymous with barbecues, parades, picnics, and fireworks. While this family fun is meant to include everyone, for friends and neighbors with sensory issues, this holiday can be a source of stress. In this article, we’ll guide you through how you can celebrate a Sensory Friendly 4th of July that everyone can enjoy!
What does “Sensory Friendly” mean?
Some individuals in our communities are particularly sensitive to Sensory Inputs like Sight, Sound, Touch, Taste, and Smell. These people may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Sensory Processing Disorder, or even PTSD. Aversive stimuli can prove to provoke aversive reactions for these individuals.
To create an environment that is respectful and welcoming of those with such sensibilities, there are Sensory Friendly events. These events are designed to be calmer and less overwhelming environments. Though every individual will have their own sensory likes and dislikes, a common set of expectations have been set for these environments based on common preferences. Often, loud noises and music are minimal, there are no bright lights or extreme darkness, the space is not heavily scented, multiple food options are available, and there are pleasantly stimulating sensory specific objects.
Many of the traditions associated with the Fourth of July, like fireworks or loud crowded BBQs, are environments that someone with sensory issues struggles with. If you have a loved one with non-standard sensory preferences, consider what adjustments you could make to your plans to help them enjoy the holiday. Remember, each person has their own idea of fun. You don’t have to celebrate your holiday the same way as everyone else. Make your own unique family traditions!
Support Tools for a Sensory Friendly 4th
There are lots of tools out there to help you navigate difficult sensory environments. Whether you’re choosing tools for yourself or your loved one, it’s important to know that there is no pre-prescribed list of what items to bring for sensory comfort. Every individual is unique. Make informed, specific, personal decisions about what tools are worth investing in. You may find that there is some trial and error in discovering what works.
If you or your loved one have difficulty with loud noises, consider purchasing noise-cancelling headphones. There are a range of products available these days, ranging from headphones designed to muffle sound while still allowing for conversation to headphones designed to create total silence for the wearer. Do your research and read reviews to find the best product for your needs.
Some people find that wearing Sunglasses during a Fireworks show help to dim the bright lights of the presentation, giving the fireworks less of an intense effect on the wearer.
The Fourth of July falls in well…July. It is usually a HOT day outside, which may be overwhelming. Make sure to equip yourself or your loved one with sunscreen, cold drinks, a hat, and maybe even a fan with a squirt bottle. This will make it easier to enjoy being outside.
Consider bringing along tools like some safe snacks you know you enjoy,or fidgets and comfort items that can help you regulate if you or your loved one become stressed out.
Know Before You Go
Choosing where to watch a fireworks show or parade can be the difference between success and disaster for those with sensory issues. Don’t be afraid to choose a spot that’s farther away from the action, where sights, sounds, and other stimuli might not be as intense. Additionally, if you find that you need to leave early, you won’t have to navigate through large crowds of people.
If you go to an event during your celebration, it can be helpful to designate a “safe spot” where you or a loved one can go if you become overwhelmed. Knowing where this spot is ahead of time can ease anxiety. That way, if your loved one becomes overstimulated, they know where they can go to self regulate. If you notice they’re not around, you know you can go to the spot you agreed upon to find them.
Sensory Friendly 4th Tips for Individuals
Are typical Fourth of July activities difficult for you? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and crowds often associated with this event? Not to worry! Here, we will provide practical advice on steps you can take to give yourself a more pleasant experience during this popular holiday.
Planning for the Holiday
Leading up to the holiday, assess how you would like to spend it. Are you someone who would like to celebrate with friends and family with support, or would you rather avoid the aversive stimuli altogether? Either way – you have options!
If you choose to celebrate the holiday, consider what tools could help you enjoy the event more. Do you need headphones or sunglasses to help with the exposure to fireworks? Remember that you can always give yourself an exit plan for if you become overwhelmed. You could attend an event to socialize and leave before the fireworks display. This is your decision to make. You don’t have to let anyone guilt you into participating in any way that isn’t comfortable for you.
You may want nothing to do with the 4th of July, and that’s okay too! Research what particularly loud events might be happening near your home. If you’re close with your neighbors, consider starting a conversation with them about their plans. That way, you can ask for a warning if they plan on shooting off fireworks or having a loud block party. If you find that your neighborhood is going to be particularly loud in a way that you find uncomfortable, consider booking a stay in a more secluded area. If you are unable to leave your home, plan to have tools available that can help you process these difficult sensory inputs.
Celebrating 4th of July with a Family Member with Sensory Issues
If you have a loved one who experiences sensory issues, you can take extra steps to make the holiday more enjoyable for your family member. While your holiday may look a little different from others, it is worthwhile to create memories that include and honor all of your family members.
Planning for the Family Holiday
One of the best things you can do for your family going into the holiday is make plans and stick to them. That way, your loved one knows what to expect going into the experience. In addition to your plan A where everything goes well, you may find it helpful to prepare a Plan B in case your loved one becomes overstimulated. Planning is able to adequately prepare the tools you need to have a successful holiday together!
Preparing for the Family Holiday
Many therapists suggest creating a Social Story to share with your loved one about what the day will entail. A Social Story is a visual tool that “shows” your loved one the steps that will happen over the course of the day. Your day might look something like this:
- Pack Icebox
- Get in the car
- Drive to our site (15 minutes)
- Unpack, set up our picnic
- Deep breaths
- Watch the Fireworks!
- Pack up our picnic
- Drive home (15 minutes)
For more information about building social stories, check out this link: Raising Children: Social Stories
You may also find it helpful to introduce your loved one to fireworks digitally before going in person. Find a movie or youtube video with a fireworks display, and watch together. You can adjust the volume on the video, so as to introduce the stimuli a little bit at a time. This can help your loved one get used to the fireworks, and even generate excitement to see them in person!
Being a Good Neighbor
If you plan on hosting a loud Fourth of July get together or firing off fireworks in your backyard, you can do your part to be a good neighbor by letting your neighbors know. That way, they can make the best decision for themselves and their family. Consider printing off an invitation to your festivities letting folks know around what time you’ll be shooting fireworks off. Giving a warning allows families who don’t enjoy fireworks the chance to prepare appropriately.
Happy Independence Day from ABA-LLC!
Happy Independence Day from ABA-LLC! We hope everyone in our community enjoys their holiday. We will be holding our annual fireworks show at our downtown Somerset, Kentucky location at 9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4th 2025.
About ABA-LLC
ABA-LLC is one of the largest suppliers of Behavior Support in the State of Kentucky. Since 2007, the agency has created innovative strategies to improve the lives of unique individuals. ABA-LLC contracts with around 160 contractors, each dedicated to building an inclusive culture that celebrates individuals of all abilities. No matter who you are, you can reach your goals at ABA-LLC.
In everything the agency does, ABA-LLC is set apart from its competitors by its uniquely person-centered approach. The agency strives to provide services from a place of deep love for the population they serve. Their work exemplifies the belief that every individual has a right to live a fulfilling and independent life integrated within their communities. There is no objective to change a person, but rather to give them the tools they need to succeed. B.F. Skinner summarizes this vision in his quote: “I’m not trying to change people. All I want is to change the world in which they live.”