Discover Our Events

Operation Plunge in support of Autism Awareness Roscrea (AAR), it is an annual fundraising and awareness event where Gardaí and community volunteers take part in a cold-water plunge to raise awareness and funds for the organisation

In February 2026, Gardaí from East Clare and North Tipperary, along with volunteers, took part in the event at Dromineer. The fundraiser was organized to support Autism Awareness Roscrea and highlight the work the organization does for autistic and neurodivergent individuals, families, and carers in the community.

AAR’s Sensory-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt provides a fun, inclusive, and welcoming Easter experience for autistic and neurodivergent children, young people, and their families. Designed with sensory needs in mind, the event offers a relaxed environment with reduced noise, smaller groups, and opportunities for children to enjoy the excitement of an Easter egg hunt at their own pace. The event promotes social inclusion, community participation, and positive family experiences in a supportive setting.

Each April, Autism Awareness Roscrea (AAR) hosts a program of exhibitions, awareness campaigns, and community activities that celebrate neurodiversity and promote greater understanding, acceptance, and inclusion. The month provides opportunities for autistic and neurodivergent individuals, families, schools, businesses, and community groups to come together, share experiences, and build a more accessible and welcoming community for everyone.

April 2026: Existing in the World Around Us is an exhibition that explores the experiences and perspectives of autistic and neurodivergent individuals, encouraging greater understanding, acceptance, and inclusion within the community. Through creative displays and personal insights, it highlights the many ways people perceive, navigate, and engage with the world around them.

Our biggest event on the calendar: The AAR Sensory-Friendly Family Fun Day is an inclusive community event that brings together autistic and neurodivergent individuals, families, carers, and friends for a day of fun, creativity, and connection. Designed with accessibility and sensory needs in mind, the event provides a welcoming and supportive environment where participants can engage in activities at their own pace and according to their individual preferences.

The day features a wide range of sensory-friendly activities and entertainment, including live music, indoor activities, creative play, arts and crafts, storytelling sessions, board games, face painting, basketball games, soccer skills activities, and performances from artists such as jugglers and other entertainers. Participants can also enjoy an animal roadshow, explore a mobile sensory room, and take part in activities that encourage social interaction, creativity, and play.

Trunk or Treat Roscrea is a family-friendly Halloween event organised by Autism Awareness Roscrea (AAR), providing a fun, inclusive, and accessible celebration for autistic and neurodivergent individuals, their families, and the wider community. The event features creatively decorated vehicles, with participants moving safely from trunk to trunk to collect treats and enjoy themed displays in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Designed with inclusion in mind, Trunk or Treat offers a relaxed alternative to traditional Halloween activities, allowing children and families to participate at their own pace. The event encourages community involvement, creativity, and social connection while creating a positive and enjoyable Halloween experience for everyone. Through this annual celebration, AAR brings families together, promotes a sense of belonging, and helps create lasting memories in a safe and accessible setting.

Taste of Christmas is a festive community craft event that brings together local businesses, traders, clubs, families, and schools to celebrate the Christmas season. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year from across the Midlands and showcases local producers, craftspeople, food exhibitors, and TY Mini Company projects, supporting creativity, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

A key focus of the event is providing an inclusive and sensory-considerate Santa experience, ensuring all children can enjoy the magic of Christmas in a calm, welcoming, and supportive environment. Through festive activities and strong community involvement, Autism Awareness Roscrea (AAR) and the Taste of Christmas committee work together to create an accessible and enjoyable experience for all.