Provide More Sensory-Free Events During the Halloween Season
The Issue
As a teenager diagnosed with epilepsy, I am unable to experience the joy of going through a haunted house, due to the excessive flashing lights. Though the strobe lights may add a heightened experience for others, for those with epilepsy as well as individuals on the spectrum, it may be extremely overwhelming and uncomfortable.
The thrill of experiencing Halloween events should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their neurological sensitivities. Unfortunately, the presence of intense flashing lights and loud noises creates limitations for a portion of the population. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy at some point in their lifetime. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism. These are not just statistics; they represent real individuals who deserve equal opportunities to enjoy Halloween events like anyone else.
By offering sensory-friendly nights at Halloween events, these attractions can open their doors to a broader audience who might otherwise feel left out. These specialized nights can feature reduced strobe lighting and lower sound levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Providing noise cancelling headphones may also be of service as individuals on the spectrum could benefit from having decreased noise rather than getting rid of strobe lights. Some attractions have already successfully implemented similar nights, proving that there is both demand and feasibility for this inclusive approach.
Implementing sensory-friendly nights would not only benefit those with epilepsy and autism but also contribute in creating a welcoming environment for families wishing to enjoy these events together without the added stimuli. Inclusivity fosters community and understanding, allowing us to build a more accepting and diverse society.
Let’s create a movement towards inclusivity so everyone can take part in these memorable experiences. Sign this petition to urge companies to offer sensory-friendly nights and make haunted houses a place where all can enjoy the thrills without feeling overwhelmed or unsafe. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that no one misses out on the excitement. - Jordan Metcalf (Luna Outreach Project)
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The Issue
As a teenager diagnosed with epilepsy, I am unable to experience the joy of going through a haunted house, due to the excessive flashing lights. Though the strobe lights may add a heightened experience for others, for those with epilepsy as well as individuals on the spectrum, it may be extremely overwhelming and uncomfortable.
The thrill of experiencing Halloween events should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their neurological sensitivities. Unfortunately, the presence of intense flashing lights and loud noises creates limitations for a portion of the population. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy at some point in their lifetime. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism. These are not just statistics; they represent real individuals who deserve equal opportunities to enjoy Halloween events like anyone else.
By offering sensory-friendly nights at Halloween events, these attractions can open their doors to a broader audience who might otherwise feel left out. These specialized nights can feature reduced strobe lighting and lower sound levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Providing noise cancelling headphones may also be of service as individuals on the spectrum could benefit from having decreased noise rather than getting rid of strobe lights. Some attractions have already successfully implemented similar nights, proving that there is both demand and feasibility for this inclusive approach.
Implementing sensory-friendly nights would not only benefit those with epilepsy and autism but also contribute in creating a welcoming environment for families wishing to enjoy these events together without the added stimuli. Inclusivity fosters community and understanding, allowing us to build a more accepting and diverse society.
Let’s create a movement towards inclusivity so everyone can take part in these memorable experiences. Sign this petition to urge companies to offer sensory-friendly nights and make haunted houses a place where all can enjoy the thrills without feeling overwhelmed or unsafe. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that no one misses out on the excitement. - Jordan Metcalf (Luna Outreach Project)
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Petition created on July 11, 2026