Northville holiday parade adds autism-friendly 'sensory zone'

Northville’s annual Holiday Lighted Parade is becoming more inclusive this year with the addition of a special Sensory Zone where families and individuals can enjoy the floats and features without the accompanying noise and lights.

This year’s Parade begins at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, downtown and is followed by the official tree lighting in the city’s Town Square. Presented by the Northville Chamber of Commerce, the parade features floats, bands, dancers, and a grand appearance by Santa Claus.

Located along Linden Street between Main and Dunlap, the Sensory Zone provides a quiet, dimmed environment for individuals who prefer to watch without intense sound and flashing lights. During this stretch of the parade, noise levels will be softened, and lights minimized, allowing children and adults with sensory sensitivities to enjoy the holiday festivities.

The Chamber of Commerce added the Sensory Zone in partnership with Northville-based Living and Learning Enrichment Center, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to supporting the neurodiverse community. Homeowners within the Sensory Zone responded positively to the new feature, the organization reported.

“Everyone deserves to experience the joy of this special holiday parade,” said Rachelle Vartanian, Founder and President of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center. “The addition of a sensory-friendly viewing area brings excitement to our participants and their families, who can now enjoy the event with ease and comfort. It’s a meaningful step that ensures more people feel welcomed in our community.”

Sensory sensitivities — such as hyperacusis — are common among autistic individuals and can lead to overstimulation, potentially resulting in meltdowns or a need to withdraw. This special viewing area also benefits those with PTSD, anxiety, or epilepsy, who may also find loud noises and bright lights distressing.

“We appreciate the Northville Chamber of Commerce for embracing inclusivity by creating a Sensory Zone this year. It’s an innovative step that I hope more communities will take,” Vartanian added. “Accessible public events foster a stronger, more connected community. We’re thrilled that individuals who may have previously missed the parade due to sensory sensitivities can now experience the holiday festivities alongside their neighbors.”

For more information about Living and Learning Enrichment Center, visit www.livingandlearningcenter.org.