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Festive Lights – where to enjoy them sensitively in Gloucestershire this solstice
Published
As the festive season approaches and Gloucestershire begins to sparkle with enchanting light displays, for many children and adults, these dazzling spectacles can be tricky as well as joyful.
Festive light events in Gloucestershire
If you're looking to enjoy the magic of light displays while being mindful of sensory needs, here are some local events to consider:
Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum
This magical after-dark trail returns with brand-new lights, spectacular installations, and festive fun for the whole family!
Relaxed Session are advertised for adults and young people with additional needs, who would love to experience Christmas at Westonbirt without the usual high volumes of people.
For 2025, these will be held at 4.00pm on:
• Saturday, 6 December.
• Thursday, 11 December.
• Wednesday, 17 December.
Find out more and how to book via Glosfamilies Directory - Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum.
Spectacle of Light Trail at Sudeley Castle (until 30 December)
A magical trail with gentle ligh,ting and music, perfect for a quieter and immersive experience. Early evening slots may be less crowded. Find out more on Glosfamilies Directory - Spectacle of Light trail at Sudeley Castle.
Bright Nights Gloucester
A series of free light-based installations across Gloucester, including lantern parades and gentle illuminated art. New events are posted on their website: Bright Nights - Incredible Free Light-Based Events in Gloucester.
Understanding light sensitivity
You may have noticed your child responding to bright or flashing lights, especially at this time of year when daylight is reduced. Signs of light sensitivity may include:
• Squinting or covering eyes.
• Avoidance of brightly lit areas.
• Meltdowns or anxiety in well-lit environments.
• Preference for dim or natural lighting.
• Headaches.
There are different causes for light sensitivity. If your child ‘s light sensitivity is impacting their day-to-day wellbeing, contact their GP or Health visitor for advice. They will be able to work with you to try to identify if there are any underlying causes.
In a few cases, photophobia can be a result of a physical difference in the eye. The Royal National Institute for the Blind provide further information on their website about Light sensitivity (photophobia). It is important to note that some people are more light sensitive without having any underlying medical cause.
Others experience sensory-processing differences, which may lead to a hypersensitivity to light. The National Autistic Society provide further information about Autism and sensory processing and things to try to help manage it.
To find other things to do in your local area this December, head to the Glosfamilies Directory’s Listings for SEND.
For further Health and Wellbeing sign-posting, visit Support for Families with SEND - Health.
Please note, where the Glosfamilies Directory contains links to other sites and services provided by third parties, these links are provided for your information only. The Council has no control over the contents of those sites or services and assumes no responsibility for the content of websites linked to this website. Read the full Disclaimer here.