Accessibility at Crowd Scale: Designing Festivals for Everyone

Introduction: Ensuring accessibility at large-scale festivals isn’t just about meeting legal requirements – it’s about respecting fans and scaling up inclusion so that every attendee can experience the magic of the event. Festivals are about bringing people together, and that must include people of all abilities. From small boutique gatherings to mega-events like Glastonbury or Coachella, the principles of accessibility remain the same, even if the scale differs. In fact, as crowd sizes grow, the need for thoughtful access design increases. By planning ahead and investing in accessible infrastructure and services, festival producers can remove barriers and offer all fans an unforgettable, dignified experience. As the saying goes, “dignity scales when designed.” This comprehensive guide draws on real-world festival experience and global best practices to show how to make accessibility work at crowd scale – with practical tips, case studies, successes, and lessons learned along the way.

Laying the Groundwork: Infrastructure and Venue Design

A festival’s physical layout is the foundation of its accessibility. Key considerations include step-free routes, stable ground surfaces, accessible viewing areas, and multi-sensory navigation aids:

• Step-Free Routes: Create continuous pathways that avoid stairs, steep slopes, or obstacles so that wheelchair users and those with limited mobility can traverse the site. On a sprawling greenfield site, this may involve building temporary ramps or using trakway mats over grass and mud (www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk). For example, Glastonbury Festival (UK) deploys metal and gravel pathways in its fields, anticipating the infamous rain and mud (www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk). These paths benefit everyone – from wheelchair users to parents with prams – and prevent anyone from being stranded when the terrain gets challenging.
• Viewing Platforms and Rails: At stages and other key areas, raised viewing platforms are essential so that disabled attendees (especially wheelchair users or those who cannot stand for long periods) can see over the crowds (directaccessgp.com). Many major festivals now offer accessible viewing platforms at multiple stages; a recent study found that 19 out of the world’s 25 most-attended festivals provide accessible viewing areas (www.ageukmobility.co.uk). Coachella (USA), for instance, has wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms at its main stages and ensures the routes to them are accessible (www.ageukmobility.co.uk). These platforms should have sturdy viewing rails at an appropriate height for someone seated, and space for a companion or friend to join (inclusion is about enjoying the show together). TRNSMT Festival in Scotland doubled the size of its main stage viewing platform and even added a ground-level viewing area, increasing its accessible viewing capacity by 74% in one year (accessaa.co.uk). This meant dozens more fans could catch the headliners up close without being stuck at the back. The lesson: allocate generous space for accessible viewing and keep expanding it as demand grows.
• Accessible Amenities Everywhere: An inclusive festival site needs more than just viewing areas. Plan for accessible toilets and showers in every major zone (and maintain them frequently so they remain usable), step-free access to food stalls and merchandise areas, and where possible, lowered counters or service windows for easier reach. Some festivals install accessible picnic tables (with extended tabletops to accommodate wheelchairs) and even provide charging stations for powered wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Little details, like grounding all cables or bridging them with gentle ramps, make a big difference in preventing trip hazards and ensuring smooth passage. Conduct a thorough site inspection with accessibility in mind – look for any narrow gates, high curbs, rough terrain, or other hurdles and find solutions (e.g. temporary ramps, widened gates, or alternate paths).
• Tactile Maps and Signage: Navigation shouldn’t rely only on sight. For large festivals, consider offering tactile maps or large-print and braille versions of festival maps for blind or low-vision attendees (directaccessgp.com). An accessible information board at the entrance or info centre could have a raised-line map of the site and key points (stages, toilets, medical) labeled in braille. While tactile maps at festivals are still relatively rare, they exemplify going the extra mile. In any case, ensure all signage is high-contrast and easy to read, and use internationally recognized symbols (e.g. wheelchair icons, hearing assistance symbols) so that language is no barrier to understanding facilities. Some events also offer audio navigation via a smartphone app or an accessibility hotline that people can call on-site if they need directions in real time.
• Quiet & Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Huge crowds and loud music can be overwhelming, not only for some people with autism or sensory sensitivities but for anyone who needs a break. Designate a quiet zone or sensory calm tent away from the stages where festival-goers can decompress. Stock it with comfortable seating, shade, earplugs or noise-cancelling headphone loaners, and soft lighting. For example, TRNSMT introduced a sensory tent with sensory toolkits (fidget devices, ear protection, etc.) for neurodivergent fans who might get overstimulated (accessaa.co.uk). Providing this space signals that the festival cares about mental and sensory wellness, and it can prevent emergencies by offering respite to those who need it.

Case Study – Glastonbury’s All-Terrain Approach: Glastonbury is often hailed as the gold standard of festival accessibility (www.ageukmobility.co.uk). On its 1,500-acre farm site, the organisers have mapped out accessible routes and even run a dedicated shuttle bus service for disabled attendees to cover long distances (www.ageukmobility.co.uk). The festival publishes a “Site Layout & Distances” guide that details exactly how far it is (in metres) from the accessible campsite to each major venue, so attendees know the journey ahead (www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk) (www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk). They also describe the terrain (e.g. grass, gravel paths, hills) and note that weather can turn grass to mud or dust (www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk) – setting clear expectations. By being transparent and pro-active, Glastonbury’s team (led by co-organizer Emily Eavis, who champions diversity and inclusion) ensures that disabled festival-goers can plan their days and feel confident navigating the massive site. Not coincidentally, Glastonbury topped a 2024 ranking of the world’s most accessible major festivals, scoring a perfect 10/10 (www.ageukmobility.co.uk) (www.ageukmobility.co.uk).

Communication is Key: Accessible Content and Programming

Accessibility at crowd scale isn’t only about structures – it’s also about information and entertainment. Large festivals must ensure that stage content, announcements, and media can be understood by attendees with hearing or visual impairments. Here are strategies to achieve this:

• Sign Language Interpretation: For any spoken or lyric-heavy content on stage, providing sign language interpreters can make a world of difference. Many music festivals now station interpreters at the side of the main stages, visible on the big video screens, to sign lyrics and dialogue in real-time. This practice has become more common especially for headliner performances and major speeches. Rock in Rio (Brazil), one of the largest festivals in Latin America, featured sign language interpreters on its jumbotrons for the first time in its 40-year history (apnews.com), bringing deaf fans into the heart of the experience. The interpreters not only translate the words but convey the emotion and rhythm of the music through movement, which has proven to electrify deaf audience members. In fact, Rock in Rio even set up a dedicated viewing section near the stage for deaf attendees and provided audio-descriptive earpieces for blind attendees, debuting these services in line with Brazil’s inclusion laws (apnews.com). The response was overwhelmingly positive, and organizers are exploring even more innovations (such as vibrating floor platforms so deaf fans can feel the bass) (apnews.com). In the UK, Glastonbury provides professional British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters for select performances and has a “Deaf Zone” tent where deaf and hard-of-hearing customers can meet up and access services. When programming your festival, identify key moments (the biggest acts, opening/closing ceremonies, any spoken-word segments or comedy stages) and budget for sign language services. It not only serves the deaf community but sends a powerful message of inclusion to all attendees.
• Captioning and Audio Description: In environments where video screens are used – say for a film festival, electronic music visuals, or conferences at a festival – adding open captions (subtitles) can assist not just deaf attendees but also anyone who has trouble catching the words over the commotion. For instance, large film festivals or outdoor movie nights often include captions on screen so everyone can follow along. For live speeches or panels, real-time captioning (using CART services or prepared subtitles for scripted content) can be displayed on screens or a dedicated mobile app. Meanwhile, audio description (narration of visual elements for blind attendees) is a newer frontier at music festivals, but some have tried it for fireworks shows or parades, and as noted, Rock in Rio offered audio description headsets for the first time for visually impaired guests (apnews.com). At multi-stage festivals, consider having an FM radio or app-based audio channel that streams narration or stage audio that can be tuned into with personal assistive listening devices.
• Hearing Assistance: Offer assistive listening devices or hearing loops at stages for those using hearing aids. For example, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival provides hearing loop systems and other listening assist devices at some stages (www.ageukmobility.co.uk), ensuring those with hearing loss can enjoy the music clearly. If your festival venues are fixed (like an indoor auditorium or a stadium stage), installing induction loop systems is a great investment. In open-air settings, an FM or Wi-Fi broadcast system that feeds into personal receivers can serve a similar purpose. Always advertise these services in advance so attendees know to request or pick up the devices (often via the access desk or info booth).
• Multiple Channels for Announcements: Don’t forget that important festival announcements (change of schedule, emergency information, etc.) must reach everyone. If you’re only shouting updates over a PA system, you might be leaving out those who can’t hear well. Use multiple channels: display text updates on large screens or digital signage, push notifications through the festival mobile app, and have staff relay messages at the accessible viewing areas and campsite. Similarly, make sure signage for any last-minute venue changes or safety information is clear and placed at wheelchair eye-level in addition to standard height.
• Inclusive Programming Considerations: When booking talent or scheduling events, think broadly about inclusion. Could you program a relaxed-performance show for neurodiverse attendees (with lower volume and controlled lighting)? Can you include an act or workshop run by artists with disabilities to celebrate accessibility as part of the culture? Some festivals have begun offering disability-led activities (for example, a dance workshop led by wheelchair dancers) which both engages the community and educates others in the audience. By weaving accessibility into programming, you send a message that disabled people belong not just in the crowd but on the stage as well.

Case Study – ASL at Lollapalooza: Several major U.S. festivals have made sign language interpreters a staple, to the point where the interpreters themselves become fan-favourites. At Lollapalooza (Chicago, USA), the ADA Access Program ensures interpreters are available for many of the big acts – even for fast-paced rap and hip-hop sets. Videos of passionate ASL interpreters “performing” songs by artists like Eminem and Twista have gone viral on social media, showcasing how dynamic sign language at concerts can be. The festival’s accessibility team coordinates scheduling so that interpreters get breaks and are matched to appropriate acts (for example, assigning interpreters who specialise in signing musical lyrics versus stand-up comedy). This not only provides deaf attendees a rich experience, but it also adds to the festival’s atmosphere – many hearing attendees have commented that seeing interpreters rock out in sync with the music was a highlight on its own. The takeaway: embrace these services as part of the show.

Information and Transparency: Preparing Attendees in Advance

An often overlooked aspect of accessibility is information sharing. Many accessibility failures can be avoided by clearly communicating what facilities exist (or don’t exist) and giving attendees the tools to plan ahead. Here’s how to be transparent and thorough:

• Comprehensive Accessibility Guides: Every large-scale festival should publish a detailed Accessibility Guide well before the event. This should live on your website (and be easy to find from the homepage) and cover all the critical info: accessible travel options, parking or drop-off details, entrance gates for disabled patrons, terrain conditions, location of accessible facilities, how to request accommodations, whom to contact with questions, and how to obtain a personal assistant (PA) ticket if offered. Make it easy for attendees to request these accommodations in advance. In fact, using a modern ticketing platform that supports accessibility features – such as Ticket Fairy – lets you collect information on attendees’ needs during registration (for example, noting if someone requires a companion pass or has specific mobility requirements). Capturing these requests upfront through your ticketing system ensures no accommodation is overlooked, and it makes on-site check-in smoother for those guests.
• Detail the Terrain and Layout: Include specifics on distances and surfaces. As mentioned earlier, Glastonbury lists the distance in meters between key points and notes the elevation changes (www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk). Following that example, you might publish something like: “It’s approximately 500m from the accessible campground to the Main Stage viewing platform on a flat, paved path; getting to Stage B is a 300m journey including a moderate uphill on grass.” If parts of the site have tricky footing (sand, gravel, mud-prone areas), be upfront about it. Providing photos or videos of the grounds, especially the accessible features (like a photo of the viewing platform, or the interior of a disabled-access toilet trailer), can greatly reassure attendees. Knowing what to expect means people can bring the right equipment (e.g. off-road wheelchair tires, an extra mobility scooter battery, or just appropriate footwear).
• Accessibility Map: Offer a dedicated accessibility map in addition to your regular festival map. This might highlight things such as accessible routes (with icons or colour-coding for step-free paths), locations of accessibility services (the access desk, viewing platforms, accessible toilets/showers, etc.), wheelchair charging points, and quiet zones. You can provide this map as a PDF download and also have printed copies at your info points. Some festivals integrate accessibility information into their main interactive app map, which is ideal so that it’s not a separate piece of information people have to hunt for.
• Key Measurements and Capacities: If you’ve built any special structures (platforms, ramps, etc.), share their specifications. For example, note the width of platform ramps (to assure it’s wheelchair-friendly), the weight limit of any elevated platforms, or the number of wheelchairs that can fit at once. If you provide wheelchair rental or golf cart shuttles, mention how to reserve these and any limitations (like “two shuttle carts on-call, available 24/7 for transport between major stages and parking – call or visit the access desk to request a ride”). By publishing these details, you demonstrate professionalism and care, and you allow guests to make informed choices. It’s far better for someone to know in advance, for instance, that “the path to the camping area is on a slight incline,” rather than only discovering it on arrival and struggling unexpectedly.
• Photos and Virtual Tours: In today’s era, going the extra step with multimedia can pay off. Consider adding a short video tour of your site’s accessibility features – maybe a narrated clip showing the accessible campsite, how the viewing platform looks, where the disabled parking is, etc. This personal touch can demystify the experience for someone who’s unsure about attending. Alternatively, a photo gallery in your access guide can serve a similar purpose. Some events publish testimonials or stories from disabled attendees on how they found the facilities, which can reassure newcomers that your festival is tried-and-true for accessibility.
• Language and Formats: Ensure all your information is provided in clear language and multiple formats. Offering the guide in a text-only format (for screen reader compatibility), and possibly in other languages if you expect international attendees, can be important. Also, be prompt and courteous in answering accessibility queries sent via email or social media. Showing that you’re listening and ready to help sets a positive tone even before the gates open.

Case Study – Attitude Is Everything & Accessible Info: In the UK, many festivals work with the charity Attitude is Everything to audit and improve their accessibility. One of the key principles is providing clear information. For example, Reading Festival and Leeds Festival (both large-scale rock festivals) earned high marks by implementing AIE’s recommendations like prominent web info, disability helplines, and on-site signage improvements. In one instance, a festival that partnered with Attitude is Everything revamped its website’s access page to include FAQ sections (covering everything from medications storage to strobe-light policy) and saw a jump in disabled attendance the next year – likely because fans finally felt confident their needs would be met. The lesson: good info doesn’t just inform, it actively builds trust with your audience.

Empowered Staff and Services: The Human Factor

Even with the best infrastructure and plans, successful accessibility at a festival comes down to people. How your team prepares and responds can make or break a disabled attendee’s experience. Here’s how to get the human factor right:

• Dedicated Access Team or Desk: It’s highly recommended to establish an Accessibility Services team as part of your festival staff. For mid-to-large festivals, this typically includes an Access Manager (who is part of pre-planning and operations) and a crew of trained staff or volunteers who specifically handle accessibility matters. At the event, set up an Access Information Desk (sometimes called an Access Hub or Accessibility Centre) in a convenient, central location. Clearly signpost it so attendees can find it easily. This desk is where people can check in for their access wristbands or credentials, pick up things like assisted listening devices or wheelchair rentals, and ask for any help throughout the festival. The key is to empower this team – they should have the authority and resources to troubleshoot issues on the fly. For instance, if a wheelchair platform is getting overcrowded, the access team can coordinate opening an overflow area or politely rotating users. If a person with disabilities arrives without the proper credential, the access staff can verify their needs on the spot and issue a pass (rather than turning them away to “figure it out”). By staffing this desk with knowledgeable, friendly faces who truly understand accessibility, you create a safe haven where attendees know they’ll be heard and assisted.
• Training for All Staff & Volunteers: While an access-specific team is vital, every staff member and volunteer should get basic training in disability awareness. Front-line staff like security guards, entrance crew, and campground volunteers need to know, for example, not to question a person’s disability if it isn’t visible, or how to respectfully offer help to someone who appears to be struggling. Small courtesies, like speaking directly to a person with a disability (rather than only to their companion), or knowing not to pet a service dog, are part of disability etiquette that your whole crew should learn. Include these topics in your pre-festival training sessions and briefing materials. When staff are informed and empathetic, attendees feel that from the moment they arrive.
• Volunteers as Accessibility Allies: Many festivals successfully use volunteers to assist disabled guests. For example, some events assign volunteer “buddies” or guides on request – a volunteer might help a disabled person navigate the crowd during a set change, carry their food tray from a vendor to the table, or just be on-call in the camping area to help pitch a tent. At TRNSMT, the organizers even had a “running team” of volunteers who could fetch items from around the site for disabled attendees (like food or merchandise), reducing the distance those attendees needed to travel (accessaa.co.uk). Consider implementing a similar program, even if informally, by instructing volunteers that if they see someone who could use a hand, to kindly offer it. These personal touches leave a lasting positive impression.
• Medical and Personal Care Support: Ensure your first aid and medical teams are briefed on assisting people with disabilities. Something as basic as having a refrigeration option for medications (like insulin or certain injections) at the medical tent can be crucial – advertise that service in your guide. If your event has overnight camping, provide an option for accessible camping areas with staff nearby who can help in emergencies at any hour. Some festivals offer to recharge electric mobility devices at the medical or access centre, or even have a spare wheelchair on hand in case someone’s breaks down (Glastonbury and others have partnerships with companies to hire out wheelchairs or mobility scooters on-site (www.ageukmobility.co.uk)). Think about the “what if” scenarios: what if a power wheelchair runs out of battery in the far end of the field? Have a plan (like a roving team with a small generator or a pickup vehicle to transport them safely).
• Effective Communication Channels: Equip your access staff with radios or a dedicated hotline so that any staff member can reach them quickly if a situation arises. For instance, if security spots someone with a disability looking distressed in a crowd, they should be able to call the Access team to come assist. Conversely, make sure disabled attendees have an easy way to reach the Access team – publish a phone number or text line for accessibility assistance during the event. An example from a Canadian festival: they set up a text-based support line so attendees could quietly text for help (ideal for someone non-verbal or in a loud environment) and the accessibility crew would respond or come find them.
• Authority and Flexibility: Empowerment also means your accessibility manager should have a voice in high-level decisions. They should be in the control room or in constant contact with festival directors, able to advocate for adjustments when needed (whether it’s pausing a show momentarily to address a safety hazard affecting disabled fans, or getting an emergency vehicle through a crowd in the safest way for someone in need). When the entire festival leadership treats accessibility as a priority, it creates a culture where every team member takes it seriously. As TRNSMT Festival’s CEO Geoff Ellis noted upon receiving an accessibility award, making accessibility a core value ensured that everyone involved in planning and delivery viewed it as a priority – and that culture shift was key to their success (accessaa.co.uk).
• Learn and Improve Every Year: Finally, treat each festival as an opportunity to improve accessibility. Solicit feedback from attendees: send post-event surveys with specific questions about accessibility satisfaction, and invite open comments. Many festivals hold annual debriefs where the access team reviews what went well and what could be better next time. Perhaps the viewing platform was great but lacked shade – plan to add canopy coverage next year. Or international guests comment that signage lacked universal symbols – fix that in the next printing. Accessibility is an evolving practice, especially as technology and expectations change, so embrace the mindset of continuous improvement. Engaging with the disabled community proactively (e.g., hosting a focus group or inviting local disability advocates for a site walk-through during planning) can yield invaluable insights.

Case Study – Overcoming Challenges: Not every attempt will be perfect, and that’s okay as long as you respond and learn. There have been instances where festivals fell short – for example, in 2022 a wheelchair user who traveled to a big rock concert found there was no accessible viewing and she ended up listening from outside the venue fence (directaccessgp.com). When stories like this hit social media, they generate outrage and tarnish the event’s reputation (directaccessgp.com). The best way to avoid such scenarios is to anticipate needs and have contingency plans. If something does go wrong on-site (say an accessibility elevator fails or an area becomes unexpectedly inaccessible due to weather), your team should act swiftly to assist those affected and communicate transparently about the issue and solution. Festivals that acknowledge issues and compensate or apologize to attendees in a sincere way often turn a bad situation into an opportunity to show their commitment. Remember, people with disabilities talk to each other – there are many online forums and groups where event accessibility is discussed. Building goodwill by “getting it right” will earn you loyal fans and positive word-of-mouth in these communities.

Adapting to Different Festival Types and Audiences

Every festival is unique – a 200,000-person outdoor music festival has different challenges than a 5,000-person city food festival or a multi-venue film festival. However, accessibility principles apply universally, with tweaks for context:

• Music Festivals (Massive Crowds): Large music festivals (e.g. rock, pop, EDM events) often involve standing audiences, huge stages, and camping. Here, infrastructure like viewing platforms, accessible camping, and robust on-site services are critical. The vibe is high-energy, so consider safety: build sturdy platforms that can handle enthusiastic dancing wheelchairs, create safe “refuge” spots on the edges of dense crowds where people who are overwhelmed or unable to jostle can still enjoy the show without fear (some metal and punk festivals, for example, set up designated safe zones out of the mosh pit range for disabled fans who still want to be close to the action (www.metaltalk.net)). Coordinate with artists if needed – many performers are happy to give a shout-out or a moment of appreciation to their fans in the ADA section, further making them feel included.
• Food & Drink Festivals: These often attract an older demographic or families, which can mean more attendees with mobility issues (even if not formally disabled, bad knees or pushing strollers can make steps difficult). Ensure there are ample seating areas and that at least some tables are wheelchair-accessible height. Keep ground surfaces even (use temporary flooring in outdoor food courts if necessary so wheelchairs and walkers don’t bog down in grass). If it’s a beer or wine festival with souvenir glasses, consider offering lightweight cups on request (some disabilities make holding heavy objects tough). For cooking demonstration stages, provide seating with clear sightlines or a dedicated viewing area for wheelchair users at the front.
• Film Festivals & Seated Events: In seated theatre-style venues (like movie screenings or talk panels), ensure wheelchair spaces are available in various sections (not only at the very back). Provide captioning or subtitle options for films when possible, and have sign language interpreters for Q&A sessions. If films are not in the audience’s primary language, offer subtitles for both accessibility and general comprehension. Also, consider sensory-friendly screenings (lower volume, no sudden strobe lights, etc.) for those who might prefer them. A film or literature festival often has a quieter atmosphere, so the needs might skew towards hearing loops, large-print programs, and easy building access (ramps/elevators).
• Cultural and Multi-Arts Festivals: Events like city-wide arts festivals or parades may involve multiple venues, street performances, and historical locations. These can be tricky if venues have inherent accessibility issues (like old buildings with no lifts). In such cases, be creative: install temporary ramps, or if a venue truly cannot be made accessible, be transparent about it and try to offer an alternative experience (livestream the performance to an accessible location, for example). Train volunteers to act as sighted guides for blind attendees who might need assistance moving between venues. For outdoor art installations, ensure paths leading to them are wheelchair-friendly and that descriptions of visual art are available (either via an app or plaques with braille).
• Audience Demographics: Tailor your services to your crowd. If data shows a significant percentage of your attendees are older, then accessibility (and comfort in general) should be a top focus – more benches, more toilets with handrails, shorter walking routes. If your festival draws an international audience, consider language translation of key signage (including for accessibility services). Family-friendly festivals should plan for parents of children with disabilities as well – e.g., an accessible kids’ play area, or making sure strollers can navigate everywhere (which usually parallels wheelchair access). On the other hand, if your festival has a hardcore youthful crowd, you might focus on things like robust medical services (for those with chronic conditions who still party hard) and ensuring security knows how to respectfully handle situations with people who have cognitive disabilities or autism in a chaotic environment.

No matter the type, the common thread is empathy and foresight. Put yourself in the shoes of various attendees and imagine their festival journey from start to finish. By doing so, you’ll catch many of the potential pain points and can design them out before they happen.

The Payoff: Why Accessibility Scales with Success

Investing in accessibility is not just an altruistic act – it has concrete benefits for your festival’s success and reputation:

• Wider Audience and Loyalty: By accommodating people with disabilities, you tap into a wider pool of attendees (approximately 15% of the world’s population has some form of disability). Many disabled music fans are eager to attend festivals if they know they can do so safely. When you make your event welcoming, they’ll become some of your most loyal customers, returning year after year. They’ll also spread the word within disability communities that your festival “gets it,” boosting your event’s reputation.
• Community and Goodwill: Festivals often pride themselves on a sense of community. When disabled attendees are fully included, the community grows richer. Other festival-goers notice these efforts too – seeing a wheelchair user crowd-surfing at a metal festival or dancing freely at an EDM festival is inspiring and breaks down stereotypes (www.metaltalk.net). It reflects well on the festival as an inclusive space. Many big festivals have received public praise for their accessibility; for example, after implementing numerous access improvements and earning accolades, TRNSMT Festival’s social media saw an outpouring of appreciation from fans who previously felt excluded.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Of course, there’s also the legal side: many countries have laws (like the ADA in the U.S. or the Equality Act 2010 in the UK) that require events to provide equal access where “readily achievable.” Failing to do so can result in lawsuits or fines, and at the very least, bad press. By proactively meeting and exceeding these standards, you turn a potential risk into a strength. You’ll also find that local authorities and sponsors look favorably on events that champion accessibility, as it aligns with social responsibility goals.
• Sponsor and Artist Appeal: In an era where diversity and inclusion are highly valued, festivals known for accessibility may attract sponsors and partners looking to support good causes. Artists, too, are increasingly vocal about wanting all their fans to be able to attend shows. Some musicians have even canceled appearances at events that did not provide adequate disability access after fans raised concerns. On the flip side, artists often give shout-outs to particularly well-organized events on accessibility (“We love playing here because everyone, including wheelchair fans up front, can rock out!”). This positive association can enhance your festival’s prestige.
• Innovation Driver: Focusing on accessibility can drive innovative solutions that improve the overall festival experience. For instance, implementing an app for navigation and assistance can benefit all attendees, not just those with disabilities. The push to provide captions or sign language on stage has led some festivals to pioneer creative presentation methods (like interpreters becoming part of the performance). Solving access challenges often leads to better site design in general – for example, adding more entrance gates (to create an accessible one) also reduces lines for everyone. In this way, accessibility acts as a design lens that makes the event better as a whole.

Above all, prioritising accessibility upholds the core ethos of live events: bringing people together. It sends a message that everyone is welcome in the celebration. As an experienced festival producer will tell you: when you plan for inclusion from the start, it scales beautifully. No matter how large the crowd grows, a well-designed festival can maintain that human touch where each attendee feels cared for.

Key Takeaways

• Plan Accessibility Early: Integrate accessibility into the festival plan from day one – it’s far easier and more cost-effective to design with access in mind than to add it last-minute. Consult disability experts or organizations during planning to catch potential issues.
• Infrastructure Matters: Provide step-free routes, ramps, and accessible transportation on-site. Build sturdy viewing platforms with good sightlines and reserved wheelchair areas. Ensure plenty of accessible toilets, showers, and facilities are distributed throughout the venue.
• Communication & Content: Make stage content accessible via sign language interpreters, captions, and hearing assistance. Use multiple channels to communicate important info (audio, visual, text) so no attendee misses out.
• Transparent Information: Publish detailed accessibility info online well in advance. Include maps, distances, terrain descriptions, photos of key facilities, and clear instructions for requesting accommodations (like companion tickets or wheelchair rentals). In fact, using a modern ticketing platform that supports accessibility features – such as Ticket Fairy – lets you collect information on attendees’ needs during registration (for example, noting if someone requires a companion pass or has specific mobility requirements). Capturing these requests upfront through your ticketing system helps ensure no accommodation is overlooked and makes on-site check-in smoother for those guests.
• Dedicated Support: Staff an Accessibility Services desk or team on-site that is empowered to help with any issues. Train all festival staff and volunteers in disability awareness and establish a culture of inclusion and assistance.
• Consider All Needs: Remember that “accessibility” covers mobility, sensory (hearing/vision), cognitive, and even mental health needs. Provide quiet spaces, allow service animals, and accommodate dietary/medical needs. One size does not fit all – be ready to adapt to individual cases.
• Learn and Adapt: Gather feedback from attendees and continuously improve your accessibility features each year. Stay updated on best practices and innovate (new tech or ideas like sensory pods or vibrating floors) to enhance inclusion.
• Inclusive Spirit: Approach accessibility not as a checkbox, but as a core value. When a festival is truly inclusive, it elevates the experience for everyone and builds community. Designing for dignity ensures that as your event grows, it does so without leaving anyone behind. Accessibility at crowd scale is achievable – and it’s the right thing to do.