Almost 600 attend inclusive Halloween Party at Púca

Almost 600 people attended the hugely successful inclusive Hallowe'en party hosted by Trim Autism Friendly Town at the Púca Big Top tent on Thursday.

Trim Autism Friendly Town is a voluntary committee with a simple but hugely important ambition: to make life in Trim fantastic for autistic people and their families, and to create a town where everyone feels welcome, understood and included.

On Thursday, the committee brought that ambition to life in spectacular fashion as they kicked off the Púca Festival with their biggest event to date – an inclusive Halloween party in the Puca Big Top tent attended by almost 600 people.

And what a party it was! There was something happening for everyone, with a fantastic line-up of entertainment and activities throughout the event.

Children enjoyed a magician, face painting, a DJ, live singing and the wonderfully entertaining Nutty Scientist. There was also a 360° camera experience to capture some special memories, lots of goodies and sweets for the children and a dedicated LEGO sensory area for those who wanted a different kind of fun. For anyone needing a little downtime, the quiet space and sensory area provided a welcome retreat from the excitement.

And it wasn't just the little ones who were looked after – Stonewall Coffees provided hot drinks for parents and carers, giving the grown-ups a chance to relax and enjoy the occasion too.

From dancing and magic to LEGO building and a quiet moment away from the crowds, the aim was simple: to create an event where every child could find something they enjoyed and every family felt welcome.

The response was phenomenal and highlighted just how much demand there is for events where autistic children and their families can relax, have fun and enjoy being part of their local community.

Accessibility was at the heart of the planning, including keeping the event affordable at just €5 per child, with parents and carers attending free of charge and the committee fundraising to supplement the event.

Sensory needs were also carefully considered and the committee made sure the venue offered different spaces to suit different children.

"Inside the Big Top, we created a dedicated sensory area and quiet space for anyone who needed a break from the excitement. Communication boards were available throughout the venue to support children who communicate in alternative ways, helping to make the experience more accessible and welcoming for all," said TAFT committee member Claire Conlon.

They also recognised that for some children, knowing what to expect can make all the difference and Iin the lead-up to the party, they shared updates across their social media channels, including a social story explaining what would happen, what the venue would look like and what families could expect when they arrived.

Claire explained that these small but important steps can make a huge difference in helping families prepare, reducing uncertainty and making an unfamiliar experience feel that little bit easier.

Committee member Eimear Wright who project managed the event said thanked the entire Púca Festival team and MPI artists for their support, enthusiasm and collaboration in helping bring this event to life.

"Their willingness to work with us and their commitment to making inclusion part of the wider festival programme is so important. We are incredibly grateful to have their support and to work alongside a team who recognise that culture, celebration and community should be accessible to everyone.”

Claire Conlon explained how much inclusive events like this mean to families. “For autistic children and their families, opportunities to attend busy community events can sometimes come with extra challenges. Sensory overload, noise, crowds, uncertainty and a lack of understanding can make experiences that others take for granted difficult to access. That is why inclusive events matter so much. They create opportunities for children to make memories, have fun, build confidence and experience the joy of belonging. They also give families the chance to connect with others, feel supported and enjoy an event without the added worry of whether their child's needs will be understood”.

Committee member Melissa Barwell added: “We wanted to create an event where every child could enjoy Halloween in their own way, at their own pace and on their own terms. Whether they wanted to dress up or come as they were, dance, explore, take a break or simply soak up the atmosphere, there was a place for everyone”.

The committee was delighted with how the event went and said perhaps the biggest message from Thursday is that inclusion benefits everyone saying "when we make space for different needs, different ways of communicating and different ways of experiencing the world, we create a stronger, kinder and more welcoming community for all".

"At Trim Autism Friendly Town, we believe that inclusion should never be an afterthought. It should be part of how we plan, how we organise and how we celebrate as a town.

"To see almost 600 people come together and enjoy an event built around that belief was incredibly special. The smiles, the excitement and the opportunity for families to simply enjoy themselves made all the planning worthwhile."