Beyond the Menu: Planning a Truly Inclusive Holiday Party 

The holiday season is a time for celebration and coming together with loved ones. As you plan your holiday gathering this year, we encourage you to go beyond being the traditional host-with-the-most to also consider any accommodations you can provide to your guests to ensure that your party is inclusive and accessible to everyone. By creating an environment that welcomes everyone, you ensure that each person can enjoy the festivities.  

Did you know that 1 in 4 people in the U.S. live with a disability? Some disabilities are invisible, and many develop as we age. That means that family needs can change year to year, and it’s important to consider accessibility each year to make sure everyone feels comfortable and included. 

Here are some quick tips! 

Invitations with a Personal Touch: 

When reaching out to your guests, use this as an opportunity to ask them about any specific requirements or preferences they may have, to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and included at your holiday gathering. As many of us know from personal experience, age-related hearing loss, vision changes, and mobility are often sensitive to broach in conversation. Being proactive is key but remember that not everyone will respond with a comprehensive list of their needs.  If you anticipate needing to provide accommodations to specific guests based on previous gatherings, build them into your hosting plan so you can react accordingly.  

Inclusive Menu Planning: 

Most hosts are sure to get a list of food allergies and preferences from their guests as they plan their menu to ensure that vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions are accommodated. Also consider asking your guests if any one in their party has any specific challenges with food textures, chewing, or needs for alternative preparation (blended diet). And if possible, it can be helpful to some guests to have a menu in advance of the event so they can get excited about the feast while also calming any food-related anxieties or sensitivities. Last, be open to guests with very specific needs to provide their own meal – while it is tempting to try to provide for all of your guests, some guests may simply need to do their own thing in accordance with their lifestyle and needs.  

Mobility Inclusion: 

Consider the mobility needs of your guests and ensure that your home or venue is accessible to everyone. If your location has stairs or steps, make sure there is an accessible and alternative route, and provide seating areas that are easily accessible and spacious for individuals using mobility aids. Because many private homes do not have ramps or elevators, be sure to have helpers in mind who can assist individuals with mobility aids or wheelchairs to gain access to your home. Ensuring that the party is accessible to all, regardless of mobility constraints, allows everyone to be comfortable and engage in activities. 

Mindful Sensory Choices: 

As you plan and stage your party/gathering, take into account the hearing, vision, and sensory needs of your guests. Consider making a diverse playlist that caters to a variety of different tastes and sensitivities and ensure that the volume is at a level that allows for conversation without being too loud for people with hearing difficulties or audio sensitivities. Similarly, if you are aware of any guests with vision impairment or sensitivities to lighting levels, make sure you have rooms with adequate dimmers and/or a variety of flexible light sources.  If your home allows for it, designate a quieter space, such as a cozy room or an outdoor area, for individuals who may need to take a step back, allowing them to recharge and enjoy the celebration at their own pace. 

Prioritize Health and Safety :

Many people with disabilities and medical conditions must take extra precautions when attending group gatherings.  While many people no longer consider masking, it is an essential step for people who are immunocompromised and something to consider for your guests.  When checking in with your guests, be sure to ask them about their comfort level in group settings to assess if any additional safety measures would be important to building a welcoming and safe atmosphere. Communicate in advance to your guests about any safety measures you’ll be implementing such as mask guidelines, slightly opening doors and windows for increased air ventilation (bring a sweater!), hand sanitizing stations, and outdoor spaces if weather permits. If you are providing food, also consider the need for a private dining space where guests are comfortable removing their masks to enjoy the spread. 

Be Flexible and Mindful During the Party:

Throughout the event, communicate openly with your guests. If you notice anyone struggling to hear – turn the music down. If it is a warm day, open up the windows or use outdoor spaces to gather. Let guests know when they arrive that you are available to assist them with any needs or concerns, they may have. Be flexible and willing to make quick adjustments as necessary. 

By incorporating these tips, your holiday party can be a celebration of inclusivity, warmth, and shared joy. Your efforts to create a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment will allow all of your guests to have a good time and contribute to the holiday spirit.