It’s a day designed to raise awareness, champion accessibility, and celebrate the contributions of disabled people in every corner of society.
One of the most meaningful, and enjoyable, ways to mark the occasion is by hosting an inclusive party or community gathering.
Whether you are planning a workplace event, a school celebration, a festive-season get-together, or a neighbourhood social, here’s how to create a welcoming space where everyone can participate and feel valued.
Why Mark the Day with a Party?
A party may seem light-hearted, but it’s actually a powerful way to bring people together, start conversations, and build a sense of belonging. Celebrations help shift the narrative from focusing solely on challenges to highlighting creativity, achievement, identity, and community pride.
Many organisations also use IDPD gatherings to:
Promote disability inclusion policies
Fundraise for disability charities
Showcase local talent
Hold staff or volunteer appreciation events
Provide a relaxed environment for connecting and learning
And because the day falls in the run-up to Christmas, it fits beautifully into the season of goodwill.
Planning an Inclusive Event: Practical Tips
1. Choose an Accessible Venue
Look for a location that offers clear step-free access, accessible toilets, wide doorways, and good circulation space. If you’re using a community hall or workplace space, walk the route as if you were a wheelchair user or someone with limited mobility. Small details make a big difference.
2. Provide Clear, Easy-to-Find Information
Send invitations that include:
Access arrangements
Parking and drop-off information
Any sensory considerations
The schedule, including quiet times or optional breaks
Offer digital, print, and Easy Read formats if possible.
3. Create a Welcoming Sensory Environment
Not everyone enjoys loud music, flashing lights, or crowded rooms. Build in:
Low-sensory or quiet spaces
Steady lighting
Volume-controlled music
Clear signage
This helps neurodivergent guests, people with sensory sensitivities, and anyone who prefers a calmer setting.
4. Provide Inclusive Food and Drink
Offer options that cover common allergies and dietary needs: dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, halal, and soft-drink choices. Labelling food clearly is always appreciated.
5. Make Activities Accessible to All
Think about the range of abilities in the room. Good options include:
Craft stations
Quiz rounds
Seated games
Photo booths
Storytelling or poetry
Gentle discos
Festive card-making
Community awards
Avoid activities that require quick reflexes, loud responses, or complex movement unless you can adapt them.
Ideas for Themed Parties
Festive Tea or Coffee Afternoon
A cosy social event is often easier to manage accessibly. Add Christmas biscuits, a charity raffle, or a mini market featuring local disabled makers.
Creative Christmas Workshop
From wreath-making to card-printing, hands-on creative sessions are brilliant for mixed-ability groups.
Talent Showcase
Celebrate disabled artists, musicians, or performers from your community. Offer relaxed-performance guidance so guests know they can move around, make noise, or take breaks.
Workplace Inclusion Party
A lunch-hour event with short talks, displays, or accessibility demonstrations helps staff learn while enjoying the social atmosphere.
Celebrate, Empower, and Connect
Marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a party sends a clear message: inclusion is something to celebrate, not something to whisper about. It encourages confidence, visibility, and community strength, all while giving people the chance to enjoy a warm, uplifting moment together during the winter season.
It’s a reminder that when we remove barriers, everyone benefits.