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Holiday Light Tours in St. Louis, Albuquerque, Omaha, and Oklahoma City: A Family-Friendly Guide

The holiday season brings a magical transformation to cities with glittering lights and festive decorations. For families, especially those with children with autism, navigating these displays can be both enchanting and overwhelming. Our guide offers insights into sensory-friendly holiday light tours in St. Louis, Albuquerque, Omaha, and Oklahoma City, ensuring a joyful experience for all.

St. Louis: A Gateway to Festive Lights

St. Louis Zoo’s Wild Lights: The zoo offers a sensory-friendly night with reduced lighting and sound. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the holiday displays in a more controlled environment. Wild Lights Information
Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights: With free admission, this is a family favorite. The expansive area allows for crowd control, making it easier to manage sensory sensitivities. Brewery Lights Details

Tips for St. Louis:

Visit on Weekdays: Less crowded for a more relaxed experience.

Evening Hours: Lights are best enjoyed in the dark, but consider going just after sunset to avoid late-night crowds.

Albuquerque: Illuminations in the Desert

ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden’s River of Lights: Enjoy New Mexico’s largest walk-through light show with sensory bags available at the entrance. River of Lights Info
Old Town Holiday Stroll: A less intensive option with beautiful lights and a laid-back atmosphere. Old Town Holiday Stroll

Tips for Albuquerque:

Early Visits: Go right when the events start for fewer people and a calmer environment.

Sensory Tools: Bring noise-canceling headphones or comfort objects.

Omaha: Midwest Winter Charm

Holiday Lights Festival: Spread across downtown, this festival offers various light displays, with some areas being less crowded and more sensory-friendly. Festival Information
Village Pointe Christmas Lights: With spacious outdoor areas, it’s perfect for families looking for a leisurely light viewing experience. Also, Holiday shoppers can enjoy complimentary horse and carriage rides throughout the center on Saturdays from November 25th – December 23rd. Village Pointe Details

Tips for Omaha:

Spacious Viewing: Choose wider areas for viewing to maintain a comfortable space for your child.

Plan Your Route: Check the festival map to plan a route that avoids high-traffic areas.

Oklahoma City: Bright Lights in the Sooner State

Lights on Broadway: Cruise down historic Automobile Alley for the district’s holiday open house and experience its stunning light display during the 8th annual Lights On Broadway event! The fun returns in 2023 for three Saturdays this season: December 2nd, 9th, and 16th.
Each Saturday from 3-7pm, various retail shops and restaurants will feature buzz-worthy window displays, in addition to pop-up activities, special promotions, and giveaways. Attendees can also enjoy family-friendly programming along the sidewalks such as live music, balloon art, performances, photos with Santa Claus, and more. Lights on Broadway Info
Yukon’s Christmas in the Park: A drive-through option is ideal for families preferring to stay in their vehicle. Yukon’s Christmas in the Park

Tips for Oklahoma City:

Drive-Through Displays: Opt for these to control the environment and reduce sensory overload.

Quiet Times: Research less busy times to visit, often earlier in the season or on weeknights.

Holiday light tours can be a magical experience for families, especially when tailored to be sensory-friendly. By choosing the right time to visit, preparing with necessary tools, and selecting the appropriate venues, families can create beautiful holiday memories together. Enjoy the festive season in a way that’s comfortable and delightful for everyone!

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