Inclusive Halloween Party Promises Fun for Everyone

Halloween is a time for costumes, candy, and community gatherings.

However, for many families, traditional festivities can present challenges.

Recognizing this, the University of Michigan-Flint is hosting its fifth annual Inclusive Halloween Party on October 24, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Riverfront Conference Center.

This free event is designed to provide a safe and accessible environment where children and adults of all abilities can enjoy the holiday together.

Laura Martin, the K-12 Partnerships Program Manager at UM-Flint, initiated the Inclusive Halloween Party in 2019.

Inspired by her son, Luke, who is autistic and nonverbal, Martin sought to create a space where families could celebrate without fear of judgment or exclusion.

“There are so many activities that parents of special needs children don't feel comfortable attending because their child is not going to act the same way as other kids,” Martin explained.

“They don't want to go through the stress and hassle of having to explain themselves at every turn.

This event was born out of the idea that no matter who you are, no one will judge you.”

The event has grown significantly since its inception.

Last year, it welcomed over 1,200 attendees and more than 300 volunteers.

This year’s festivities promise to be even more engaging, featuring:

Therapy dogs from Mid-Michigan Therapy Dogs, offering comfort and companionship.

Indoor trick-or-treating with rooms tailored to different preferences: a “happy” area with friendly decorations and a “spooky” area for those who enjoy traditional Halloween frights.

Both candy and non-edible treats to accommodate various dietary needs.

Free food, including hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, and ice cream.

A silent dance party sponsored by Silent Events, allowing attendees to enjoy music in a sensory-friendly manner.

A calm sensory room with low lighting and quiet activities for those who may need a break from the excitement.

Costumed characters, including the popular Wolverine Stormtrooper.

A free costume closet for those in need.

Arts and crafts, adaptive games, and a photo booth where families can take home a printed photo.

A community organization resource fair providing valuable information and support.

Melissa Sreckovic, Associate Professor of Education at UM-Flint and co-organizer of the event, emphasized the importance of creating inclusive spaces.

“This will be our fifth year hosting Inclusive Halloween, and we are seeing many of the same families and lots of returning volunteers every year,” Sreckovic said.

“What makes it so meaningful is knowing that volunteers come back because they care deeply about our community and building inclusive spaces, and families return because they've found a place where they truly feel welcome and free to be themselves.”

In addition to providing a fun and safe environment, the event also serves as an educational opportunity.

Martin encourages families with neurotypical children to attend, fostering understanding and acceptance.

“If your kids are neurotypical, maybe talk to them beforehand and say there are going to be all kinds of people there – they may act differently than you're used to – and that's OK,” she said.

“We want to expose as many people as possible in a positive way to the disabled community so that it's normalized and families feel like they can go to events like these without being judged.”

Community members interested in attending the Inclusive Halloween Party are encouraged to RSVP online.

Volunteers are also welcome and can sign up to assist with various aspects of the event.

The Inclusive Halloween Party is made possible through the generous support of organizations such as Dort Financial Credit Union, Genesee Health System, Goodwill Mid-Michigan, Laugh & Learn Autism Center, Metro EHS Pediatric Therapy, Silent Events, Strive Center for Autism, The Disability Network, and Thrive Therapy Center.

For more information or to support the event, visit the UM-Flint Inclusive Halloween 2025 fundraising page.

By coming together as a community, UM-Flint’s Inclusive Halloween Party continues to break down barriers and ensure that Halloween is a joyous occasion for everyone, regardless of ability.