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. Attendees will also have an opportunity to help decorate Buddy Benches that will remain at select Montgomery Parks.

Bring a picnic or purchase food on-site from Fly Pizza Truck and Festival Concessions. (Alcohol is not permitted at this event.)

Partners include Montgomery Parks and Montgomery Park Police Special Operations, Montgomery Recreation, Montgomery County Police Autism/IDD Unit, City of Rockville Recreation and Parks, City of Gaithersburg Parks, Recreation and Culture, City of Takoma Park, Montgomery County Public Library System, The Arc of Maryland, The Arc Montgomery County, and xMinds.

Activities will include sensory-friendly story times, face painters, roving characters, arts and crafts, exercise demos, Imagination Playground “Big Blue Blocks”, performances, and more. Activities and resources will be provided by ArtStream, Jubilee Association of Maryland, MDTAP, Maryland ABLE, Spirit Club, and partners. Please check back one week prior to the event for a social story about exactly what to expect.

This event is FREE and open to the public.