Blinking/Flashing Christmas Lights

Blinking and Flashing Christmas lights are very overwhelming and overstimulating for those with sensory processing conditions, autism, misokinesia, migraines etc. If the lights blink too fast, this can also cause issues for epilepsy. Unfortunately, blinking Christmas lights are often a part of a deeply entrenched cultural tradition, and thus are not something to lightly mention as an accessibility concern. However, the impact on sensory and neurological communities is significant, and thus something that comes up each and every holiday season. Blinking lights (non holiday) are also a problem, but during winter festivities are particularly noxious sensory stimuli.

How this concern could be addressed:

The use of non-blinking Christmas lights, as well as lights that are not overly bright and strong, can mitigate impact on the sensory community. Simply using lights that stay one color is the best way forward. However, lights that transition slowly and gently can also be helpful as an in-between.

Type of Sensory Issue

Related Disorder

Type of Concern

Company or Brand