For many Neurodivergent people, these gatherings can feel more exhausting than fun. Instead of enjoying the festivities, they might be hyper-attuned to every little sensory detail: the clinking of cutlery, overlapping conversations, chewing, background music, smells, tastes, textures, and even flickering lights. It’s like the brain is trying to process everything at once, leaving no space to focus on conversation or relax into the moment.