Saturday, April 18 | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This event is FREE and open to the public.
April is Autism Acceptance Month! To recognize its significance, various agencies from across the county are “shining brighter together” at a fun family-friendly event at Wheaton Regional Park! Participate in hands-on, sensory-friendly activities while learning more about autism and the variety of resources available in Montgomery County.
Partners include Montgomery Parks Program Access, Montgomery County Recreation, City of Rockville, City of Gaithersburg, The Arc Montgomery County, and AUSOM.
Rain Date: Sunday, April 19, 2026
Resource Tables
- ABA Prep Corp.
- Autism Society of Maryland
- Brookside Nature Center
- City of Gaithersburg
- City of Rockville
- Maryland ABLE
- Montgomery County Police, Autism/IDD Unit
- Montgomery County Recreation
- Montgomery Parks Police
- Potomac Community Resources
- Montgomery Parks, Program Access
- Special Olympics
- SPIRIT Club
- The Arc Montgomery County
- xMinds
- You First Health Systems
Schedule of Activities
| Activity | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Treats by IC Dream – Indulge in a delicious variety of all-natural shaved ice and premium ice cream. Card and cash accepted. | Parking lot nearest the Wheaton Train and Carousel. | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Tree Climbing Sessions – Reach new heights in our exciting tree climbing sessions! With expert guidance and a sensory-friendly approach, kids of all abilities can build confidence, strength, and a sense of adventure—one climb at a time! | Behind the bathroom facility at the large Sawtooth Oak tree. | Instructions for sign up will be available onsite the day of the event. |
| Group Music Sessions – Feel the rhythm and join the beat in our exciting group music session! This interactive, sensory-friendly experience is all about making music, having fun, and creating connections through the power of melody! | In the open grass area next to the outdoor fitness equipment and across from the bathroom facility. | Instructions for sign up will be available onsite the day of the event. |
| Performances by ArtStream – Experience the joy of music with inspiring vocal performances by ArtStream! Enjoy a sensory-friendly show where talented performers bring songs to life in a fun, inclusive, and engaging atmosphere! | Pavilion B. | 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. |
| Weaving Community Project – Join us for a collaborative weaving project celebrating our diverse community. Contribute a strip of fabric to help create a shared piece of art that represents connection, creativity, and the strength of our community. | Across from Pavilion B and next to the playground. | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Sensory Play – Visit our exhibitors and dive into a world of textures and fun with our hands-on sensory play! Explore, create, and discover while building fine motor skills and self-regulation in an engaging, tactile experience for all! | Multiple locations throughout the park. | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Parachute Play – Join us for a fun, sensory-friendly adventure where movement, teamwork, and play come together! Make new friends, build skills, and enjoy an engaging group activity designed for all abilities! | Behind Montgomery County Recreation and next to playground. | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Blue Blocks Play – Come build, create, and play with our giant foam Blue Blocks! This sensory-friendly adventure is perfect for kids of all abilities to spark imagination, develop motor skills, and make new friends in a fun and inclusive space! | Next to Pavilion B and across from the playground. | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Sensory Retreat Tent – Take a break and relax in our Sensory Retreat Tent—a calming space designed for comfort, regulation, and sensory-friendly relaxation. Whether you need a quiet moment or a cozy escape, this is your place to recharge! | Two locations: One tent between near Pavilion C and a second tent across from Montgomery County Recreation. | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Face and Hand Painting – Get creative with colorful face and hand painting in a sensory-friendly space! Whether it’s a cool design on your face or a simple splash of color on your hand, this fun activity encourages self-expression! | Pavilion C. | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
