Sensory Friendly Halloween Event at The Franklin Institute
A quieter Halloween museum experience for families in Philadelphia
Sunday, October 25, 2026 | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Sensory Friendly Halloween at The Franklin Institute is a family-friendly Halloween event in Philadelphia designed for guests who prefer a more sensory-considerate museum experience. The event includes sensory-friendly shows, Halloween trick-or-treating, hands-on activities, community programming, and general admission access to the museum.
The Franklin Institute will open 30 minutes early at 9:00 am for Sensory Friendly Day programming.
Buy Tickets Reserve Member Tickets
Space is limited. Advance tickets are required.
To learn more about free accessibility tickets for this event, please call 215-448-1200.
Sensory Friendly Day is Underwritten by The Weiner Family Foundation.
Sensory Friendly Halloween Activities
- Sky Tonight Planetarium Shows | Fels Planetarium | 10:15–10:45 am and 12:30–1:00 pm: Explore the night sky in these specially adapted Sky Tonight shows, which offer a more sensory-considerate environment to experience the show.
- Inside You Live Science Show | 11:00 am: Take a closer look at the science of the human body.
- Halloween Trick-or-Treating | 9:00–11:00 am | Museum-wide: Visit four trick-or-treat doors throughout the museum to collect Halloween candy. Bring your own bag.
Meet Community Organizations
Connect with organizations that provide resources, services, research, and support for individuals with autism and their families.
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute: Learn about autism research and active research studies seeking participants, along with resources for families and community members.
- ABA Centers of Pennsylvania: Explore sensory bins, seasonal arts and crafts, and fidget toys while learning more about services and resources for children and teens with autism and their families.
- TechOWL: Meet with TechOWL and learn about resources and technology that can help increase access, independence, and participation for people with disabilities.
Plan Your Sensory Friendly Visit
Our Sensory Friendly Halloween Event gives families flexible options for experiencing The Franklin Institute during a Halloween celebration. Guests are welcome to participate in as much or as little programming as they choose.
The museum's exhibits and experiences will be available with general admission.
Sensory Friendly Day takes place Sunday, October 25, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The Franklin Institute opens to the public at 9:00 am specifically for early-access programming.
Official Partner
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sensory Friendly Day at The Franklin Institute?
Sensory Friendly Day at The Franklin Institute is a Halloween event in Philadelphia with sensory-considerate programming. Activities include sensory-friendly planetarium shows, a sensory-friendly Inside You presentation, Halloween trick-or-treating, hands-on activities, and community resources.
When is Sensory Friendly Day?
Sensory Friendly Day takes place Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The Franklin Institute opens 30 minutes early at 9:00 am for the event.
Is Sensory Friendly Day appropriate for children with autism?
Yes. The event is designed to provide sensory-considerate experiences and includes participation from organizations serving individuals with autism and their families. Families with a range of sensory needs are welcome.
Do I need a separate ticket for Sensory Friendly Day?
No. Sensory Friendly Day programming is included with general admission to The Franklin Institute. Members should reserve member tickets in advance and receive their usual member benefits.
Can I secure free accessibility tickets for Sensory Friendly Day?
If you are interested in learning more about securing free accessibility tickets for this event, please call 215-448-1200.