Territorians have decked the halls of Darwin and beyond, putting on a tropical twist on classical Christmas lights. But for some people with a disability, navigating the festivities can be difficult. One community event has been working to provide an accessible alternative, a Merry Christmas for all, and for a good night.
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00:00It's a sight some never thought they'd see in the Northern Territory, a white Christmas.
00:08The Top End lit up as Territorians turned their homes into hubs of festive fun.
00:14Some houses have hijacked local radio waves to create an experience unlike any other,
00:25while others are taking advantage of the foot traffic to give back to those in need.
00:30It's the time of giving, isn't it?
00:32Each year the owners of this house raise money for charity, with all donations going to Food
00:36Bank.
00:37It stays in the Territory with all Territorians that are in need and it's a really good cause.
00:41The best attraction is hotly contested.
00:43I like the Christmas tree.
00:47I love the snow and all the blow ups and lights.
00:51Though some people are simply appreciating Territorians coming together.
00:55I'm enjoying the local festive energy that it brings.
00:59While catching a suburban light show like this is a highlight of the year for many,
01:04for some, especially those in the disabled community, navigating local Christmas festivities
01:09can be difficult.
01:11But in recent years, one community event has taken steps to make a more accessible alternative.
01:17Palmerston's Christmas Wonderland had over 15,000 visitors attend last year.
01:22This year they're offering a low sensory experience for its opening night.
01:26The modified event saw less strobing lights and loud noises as well as reduced crowd numbers,
01:32an alternative for people with sensory issues and those using mobility aids.
01:36We want everyone in the community to feel like they belong and going to places where
01:41there's lots of loud noises, flashing lights and a lot of people, it's really uncomfortable
01:47for some people in the community.
01:49Among the penguins, polar bears and snowmen, there was even a special visit from a signing
01:54Santa.
02:00Celebrations just as merry, but not quite as bright.