Creating Calm at Events: Why Festivals & Sporting Arenas Need a Poppypod
Public events—festivals, concerts, sporting matches, community celebrations—are thrilling for many, but for neurodivergent individuals or those with sensory sensitivities, they can be overwhelming. Crowded grounds, flashing lights, booming sound systems, unpredictable crowds, and unfamiliar layouts can lead to anxiety, shutdowns, or meltdowns. Personal stories reflect this well: one festival-goer shared how “before I could even register what was going on… my body was walking me back to my tent in search of water, a bit of quiet, and a nice little space to cry” in this article.
Between 10–20% of people worldwide are neurodivergent, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, sensory processing differences, and more. Many others experience similar challenges due to PTSD or anxiety. Events often focus on spectacle over calm, overlooking these hidden needs—a missed opportunity for greater inclusion and engagement.
Poppypod transforms event planning by offering a fully self-contained sensory sanctuary exactly where it’s needed: near stages, vendor areas, busy entrances, or crowd-intensive zones. With adjustable lighting, calming soundscapes, airflow, and a menu of sensory programs, Poppypod empowers users to self-regulate in the moment, promoting emotional stability and wellbeing.
Many inclusive events now feature sensory zones—but they’re often underfunded, far from the action, or poorly signposted. Poppypod’s flexibility allows for tailored placement across a site, with pods deployed where they’ll have the most impact—improving consistency, comfort, and the visitor experience.
Research shows that sensory environments like Poppypod reduce anxiety, improve focus, and support emotional self-management—mirroring outcomes found in more traditional sensory rooms, yet in a portable format.
Providing this kind of support is more than a good gesture—it’s an effective, future-proof way for venues to show they care, meet rising expectations, and deliver truly inclusive experiences. It builds community trust, strengthens reputation, and ensures people of all needs can take part, connect, and feel welcome.
In short: Poppypod makes events more accessible, joyful, and inclusive. A small investment that speaks volumes—enhancing the experience of millions while elevating any venue’s commitment to equity and inclusion.
References
- Katrina Schwarz on sensory overwhelm at festivals – Refinery29
- Designing neuro-inclusive events – Australian Psychological Society
- Portable sensory benefits in public settings – ABA Centers
- Inclusive festival planning and quiet space impact – Inclusion Festival
- Creating inclusive festival environments – Autism Spectrum News
