Sensory-Friendly Viewing Area Returns for Arklow St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Arklow’s sensory-friendly viewing area will once again be available at Arklow Library for the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive space for those who may find the busy, noisy environment overwhelming.
This initiative was a huge success last year, helping to support neurodiverse individuals and those with sensory sensitivities. It provides a calm and accessible way to enjoy the parade while avoiding large crowds and excessive noise.
Anita Nolan from Little Warriors outlined the huge benefit of the initiative:
“The sensory-friendly viewing area is a great asset for the town. Arklow truly is becoming one of the most inclusive towns in Wicklow.”
Arklow has also recently taken its first steps to becoming an Autism-Friendly town.
What to Expect at the Sensory Area
Indoor and Outdoor Viewing Options
- Indoor Area: Located upstairs in Arklow Library, accessible by lift, with large windows offering a clear view of the parade.
- Outdoor Area: A fenced-in section outside the library, providing a safe space to watch the festivities.
Support & Accessibility
- Volunteers in high-visibility jackets will be available to offer assistance.
- Visuals, social stories, and sensory equipment will be available upon request.
- A Sunflower Lanyard, Asiam or Carers Card, or JAM Card is required for entry, ensuring the space is reserved for those who need it.
How to Access the Sensory Viewing Area
- Enter through Arklow Library, where volunteers will be available to guide visitors to their preferred viewing area.
- Those choosing the indoor option can take the lift upstairs to the dedicated sensory viewing space.
The return of this initiative highlights Arklow’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in a way that feels comfortable for them.
This would not be possible without the help of Wicklow County Council Library Service, All Kinds Of Amazing, Little Warriors, The House, Arklow Little Vikings, Making Arklow, Arklow Autism Friendly Town, and St. Patrick’s Day Pararde Arklow.
