What Is Autism Awareness Month?
Autism Awareness Month takes place every April and aims to increase understanding, acceptance, and support for autistic individuals and their families. The month also highlights the importance of creating more inclusive communities, workplaces, and schools.
The initiative is recognised internationally and includes World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April, a day established by the United Nations to promote awareness and advocacy for autism worldwide.
Throughout April, charities, community groups, and organisations host events such as:
- Awareness walks and fundraising events
- Community workshops and webinars
- Sensory-friendly activities for families
- Conferences and educational talks
- School and workplace awareness initiatives
Many organisations now refer to the month as Autism Acceptance Month, emphasising not only awareness but also inclusion, understanding, and respect for neurodiversity.
Events Across Ireland
Autism Awareness Month isn’t just about raising awareness — it’s about taking action. Across Ireland, organisations and community groups are marking the month with events, workshops, and activities that provide support, education, and inclusion. From family-friendly walks and sensory-friendly museum sessions to conferences and educational talks, something is happening in every region — from Cork and Limerick to Dublin and Belfast.
Cork
Cork Autism Conference
One of Ireland’s largest autism conferences, bringing together autistic adults, parents, educators, and professionals to share knowledge and practical insights.
The Rainbow Club Autism Centre
Based in Cork, The Rainbow Club runs social groups, programmes and events for autistic children, teenagers and adults, helping create supportive spaces for connection and development.
Limerick
ASD Ireland Community Activities
ASD Ireland organises community activities, camps, and social groups for autistic individuals and their families throughout the year.
Parkway Retail Park Autism-Friendly Initiative
Parkway Retail Park in Limerick introduced autism-friendly shopping initiatives including sensory considerations and accessibility supports.
Belfast
World Autism Acceptance Month – Autism NI
Autism NI hosts a range of events during April including community activities, family events, and awareness initiatives designed to support autistic people and promote understanding.
Nationwide Events
Same Chance Walk for Autism (Nationwide)
Organised by AsIAm, this community walk takes place in several locations across Ireland and people can also organise their own local walks to support autism inclusion.
Date: 12 April
Locations:
- Belmont Demesne, Greystones, Co. Wicklow
- Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, Co. Galway
🔗 https://asiam.ie/same-chance-walk-2026/
Autism Acceptance Festival (Dublin / Sligo / National Universities)
A series of talks, workshops, and educational events promoting autism acceptance and neurodiversity in higher education.
🔗 https://www.ncirl.ie/About/EDI/Autism-Acceptance-Festival
Dublin
Autism Friendly Fun Day – Dublin
A relaxed community event designed for children of all abilities, with sensory play, face painting, and other accessible activities.
Date: 10 April
Location: St Laurence O’Toole Recreation Centre, Dublin
🔗 https://www.dublincity.ie/ga/node/17493
Autism-Friendly Workshop – National Museum of Ireland
A creative drop-in workshop for families during Autism Awareness Month with art activities inspired by prehistoric Irish designs.
Location: National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street
🔗 https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/News/Autism-Awareness-Month-and-AsIAm-Partnership
Sensoria – Neurodivergent-Friendly Festival
This inclusive festival in Dublin celebrates neurodiversity with performances, workshops, creative activities, and dedicated sensory spaces. The event is designed to provide a welcoming environment for neurodivergent visitors and families.
Dates: 25–26 April
Location: Merrion Square Park, Dublin
Event page:
https://dublin.ie/whats-on/listings/sensoria/
Mayo
A quieter museum session with reduced noise and lighting designed to create a more comfortable environment for autistic visitors.
Date: 12 April
Location: Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
🔗 https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/News/Autism-Awareness-Month-and-AsIAm-Partnership
Galway
Galway Autism Partnership – Autism Acceptance Month Activities
Family days and community initiatives celebrate Autism Acceptance Month with activities designed to support autistic individuals and their families.
🔗 https://galwayautismpartnership.com/family-days/
Supporting Autism Awareness and Acceptance
Autism Awareness Month provides an opportunity to celebrate neurodiversity, increase understanding, and promote inclusion. Community events, conferences, and family activities across Ireland help create spaces where autistic individuals and their families feel welcomed, supported, and included.
