Autism Acceptance Month in Chicago

2 days ago
2 min read

From sensory-friendly activities for your crew to advocacy events, there’s a lot to do in the Chicago area to celebrate neurodiversity this month! Here are 5 activities we recommend to fill your cup and connect.

Glow Wild

Glowing tiger lanterns in a dark setting, lit with bright colors. Multiple tigers are visible, creating a vibrant, vivid atmosphere.

Brookfield Zoo has a Glow Wild exhibit running with lots of furry (and scaly) friends lighting up the night. From 6:00-10:00 PM on Thursday, April 16, the zoo will be running a sensory-friendly version of this event with lower sound levels, reduced flashing lights, and designated quiet spaces. They also offer sensory tools like noise-reducing headphones and fidgets to borrow at the North and South entry gates.

Calm Waters

Fish swimming in an aquarium tank as people look on.

On Sunday, April 26, the Shedd Aquarium is hosting a Calm Waters event that highlights their critters in an inclusive environment. From 9:00-11:00 AM, you can explore the aquarium in a streamlined way with a limit on the capacity of attendees. There will be an animal spotlight experience with ASL (American Sign Language) translation and an opportunity for an animal encounter.

Together We Shine

The 3D Legacy Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth empowerment, autism awareness, and community education, is hosting a fashion show in LaFollette Park called “Together We Shine.” This will be an autism-inclusive fashion show with musical performances by Redd’s Angelz and other special guests! The show takes place on Saturday, April 11, from 12:00-3:00 PM with tickets starting at $35.

Play for All

The Chicago Children’s Museum is holding a Play for All event on Sunday, April 12. This event offers the opportunity to explore the museum’s sensory experiences and programs with reduced capacity limits. The museum will open at 10:00 AM for Play for All attendees and will open to the general public at 11:00 AM. The first 250 families to register will receive free admission!

Community Canvas Autism Awareness Event

Family painting at Legler Library. Text: "Community Canvas Autism Awareness, April 25, 2:30 PM, 115 S. Pulaski, Chicago."

In collaboration with Darrin’s Voice, Legler Regional Library invites families to join a sensory-friendly guided canvas painting activity. This event will take place on Saturday, April 25, from 2:30-4:30 PM. The library will accommodate sensory needs, creating a calm, welcoming environment. Admission is free–all you need to do is reserve a spot! There will be light refreshments provided. Come in clothes you don’t mind getting paint on!

I hope this list inspires you to get out into your community and experience all the sensory-friendly events Chicago has to offer. Happy Autism Acceptance Month!