AUTISM FRIENDLY
As part of our goal to make Harvest Festival accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities.
We are delighted to announce Autism Friendly Waterford and Nua Health are part of Harvest Festival again this year and will provide two Sensory Units over the weekend. Due to the success of our Fastpass initiative in 2025 we are running this again, where those with sensory challenges will be able to avoid queueing at our participating Harvest Market Stalls.
We are also running sensory friendly music and art workshops 12pm - 1pm on the 5th and 6th September in partnership with the Waterford Academy of Music and Art (WAMA). at the Old Quarter Ballybricken Green
Sensory Friendly Hub at City Square Shopping Centre
Autism Friendly will provide a parent an child sensory hub at City Square Shopping Centre upstairs, simply call in and ring the number of the door or prebook at info@city-square.ie
It’s a quiet, calming space for your child to go to when they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Sensory Friendly Hub O'Connell St
Nua Healthcare’s Mobile Sensory Unit brings an accessible sensory experience and will be available on the corner of O'Connell St and Gladstone St for drop-ins over the weekend. The specially designed unit provides a calm, welcoming and engaging sensory environment, offering individuals the opportunity to regulate, explore and enjoy a sensory experience in a safe and supportive space.
Autism Friendly Waterford
Launched in April 2023, the Autism Friendly Waterford initiative aims to make Waterford a fully inclusive city where neurodiversity is welcomed and celebrated. Autism Friendly Waterford hosts events and activities to engage autistic individuals and their families, including festivals, workshops, and social gatherings.
Nua Health Care
Nua Healthcare Services provides specialist care and support services to children and adults with a range of complex needs across Ireland. As part of their commitment to inclusion and community engagement, Nua Healthcare’s Mobile Sensory Unit brings an accessible sensory experience directly into communities and events.
We are delighted to bring Nua's Mobile Sensory Unit to the Harvest Festival and to support its efforts to make the event accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities.
*Limited number of parking spaces will be available to those with additional needs at Bolton St Car Park for the duration of the festival.
*Limited number of seats will be reserved for Food Demos for those with additional needs