September 2026 Guide to Sensory-Friendly & Inclusive Events Around Central Indiana
September brings the start of a new school year, fall activities, opportunities for connection, and plenty of ways to learn and participate across Central Indiana. We've gathered sensory-friendly events, inclusive community activities, adaptive recreation, educational opportunities, and disability-focused events happening throughout the month.
Whether you're looking for something fun to do with the family, a chance to connect with other adults, information about special education or transition planning, or a community event where you can discover new resources, there's a lot to explore this September.
We'll continue updating this guide throughout the month as we learn about additional events.
At a Glance
Featured Opportunities: 16
Locations: Indianapolis, Carmel, Zionsville, Greenwood, Noblesville, Lafayette, and virtual events
Event Types: Sensory-friendly experiences, family activities, adult recreation, disability resources, education, transition planning, advocacy, community connection, and inclusive recreation
September Events
September 1
NeuroVibes Night at Books & Brews
Autistic adults ages 18 and older are invited to connect with others, play games, and spend time together in a relaxed community setting hosted by the Autism Society of Indiana. Registration is required, and games, food, and non-alcoholic beverages are included.
September 3
Baby Rave at Tippecanoe County Public Library
A playful sensory-friendly experience for babies, toddlers, and young children ages 0–5. Families can enjoy movement, music, and a fun library experience together. The event is free.
September 4 and September 11
Indiana Family Employment Awareness Training
This free two-day training helps young adults with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who support them learn about employment resources, benefits, workplace supports, and pathways toward meaningful employment.
Each training day covers different topics, and organizers encourage participants to attend both sessions. The training is especially relevant for students and young adults beginning to think about employment and families navigating the transition to adulthood.
September 6
Open Garden Photoshoot at Compassionate Roots
Looking for a lower-pressure way to create some family memories? Compassionate Roots is opening its garden for a free, casual evening of photography and connection.
This come-and-go event allows guests to explore the garden, use outdoor spaces and vintage furniture as photo settings, and take pictures at their own pace. Staff will also be available to help take photos.
September 7
Preparing for Adulthood on the Autism Spectrum
This virtual presentation from the Autism Society of Indiana explores some of the questions that can come with planning for adulthood, including financial planning, government benefits, supported decision-making, guardianship, long-term supports, and community resources.
It may be especially helpful for autistic teens and young adults, parents and caregivers, and families beginning to think about the transition to adulthood.
September 11
VIP Carnival at the Zionsville Fall Festival
Families with children with special needs are invited to enjoy a free carnival experience during the Zionsville Fall Festival. The VIP Carnival includes rides, food, and family-friendly fun in an intentionally inclusive setting.
RSVP is requested, and families can participate in the larger Fall Festival surrounding the VIP experience.
September 12
Indiana Family Engagement Summit
Hosted by IN*SOURCE, this free virtual summit brings together parents, caregivers, educators, disability advocates, and community professionals for conversations about family engagement, special education, advocacy, and supporting students with disabilities.
Because it's virtual, families can participate from home without the added logistics of travel.
September 12
Fall Virtual Neuroaffirming IEP Summit
Spend the day exploring more inclusive and neuroaffirming approaches to IEPs, AAC, learning differences, nervous system needs, student voice, and educational support.
The virtual summit is designed for both families and professionals and includes sessions focused on rethinking educational practices in ways that prioritize access, autonomy, and belonging.
September 19
Disability Resource Carnival at New Hope Church
This free family event brings together local disability resources, community organizations, and fun activities for individuals of all ages and abilities.
Families can connect with resource providers while enjoying carnival games, bounce houses, food trucks, face painting, and other activities. Because this is a traditional carnival-style community event rather than a designated sensory-friendly event, families may want to consider the activity level and environment when deciding if it's a good fit.
September 19
Friday Night Out Bowling with Easterseals Crossroads
Adults with disabilities ages 18 and older can enjoy an afternoon of bowling, pizza, and time with friends during this special respite event at Pins Mechanical Company.
The event includes a drop-off option, giving parents and guardians an opportunity to have some time for themselves while their loved one enjoys recreation and social connection. Space is limited, and registration runs September 2–15.
September 20
Sensory-Friendly Afternoon at the Indiana State Museum
Explore the Indiana State Museum in a more sensory-supportive environment with adjusted lighting, reduced distractions, sensory bags, social narratives, and sensory-based activities throughout the museum.
Representatives from the Autism Society of Indiana will also be available to support families and answer questions.
September 24
Heart to Heart Conference 2026
This free virtual statewide conference from Indiana Family to Family brings together families, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, and disability advocates for a full day of learning.
Sessions cover topics including special education, Medicaid, assistive technology, behavioral supports, sibling relationships, transition planning, family leadership, respite care, and neurodiversity. Registered participants will also have temporary access to session recordings.
September 24
Touch of Technology
Explore accessible technology designed to support communication, independence, and access for members of the DeafBlind community during this free educational and exhibitor event hosted by InTRAC.
Attendees can connect with accessibility experts and technology exhibitors, ask questions, and explore tools that may support communication and independence. Requested accommodations and lunch are available for registered participants.
Registration is required by September 18.
September 26
Creative Greenhouse Workshop for Adults with Disabilities
Adults ages 18 and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities are invited to a hands-on greenhouse workshop at Dammann's Garden Company.
Participants will paint a terracotta pot, plant a tropical terrarium, and take their finished project home. The workshop is designed to be supportive and sensory-friendly, with step-by-step guidance and no previous gardening or creative experience required.
September 29
Greater Indianapolis Disability Town Hall
Join INSILC for a community gathering focused on home and community-based services, Indiana's Medicaid Waiver Reset, and the future of independent living.
The evening will include information from FSSA leadership, opportunities to ask questions, community exhibitors, and a chance to help shape Indiana's next State Plan for Independent Living. ASL interpretation and CART services will be provided, with a livestream option available.
September 30
Carmel Transition Talks: What Is Pre-ETS?
Learn about Pre-Employment Transition Services, or Pre-ETS, a free Vocational Rehabilitation service designed to help students with disabilities prepare for employment, higher education, and life after high school.
This free session at Carmel High School will help families understand what Pre-ETS is, how it connects to Vocational Rehabilitation, and how it may support students as they prepare for their next steps.
Recurring Opportunities
In addition to this month's featured events, Central Indiana has organizations offering recurring sensory-friendly, adaptive, and inclusive programming throughout the year.
We're continuing to build our collection of recurring opportunities, so check back as we add more.
Check Back Throughout the Month
This guide is updated as new events are announced. Be sure to bookmark this page and check back regularly to discover additional opportunities happening throughout September.
What’s on Your Calendar?
Know about another sensory-friendly, inclusive, or family-friendly event happening in Central Indiana?
