Oh hey there! Welcome to my blog about creating inclusive and safe spaces at festivals – my name’s Kate and I’m a festival enthusiast ☀️👩‍🎤. In recent years, we’ve seen a major shift in the festival world towards creating events that are welcoming and inclusive for all attendees, regardless of gender, race, sexuality, socioeconomic status or any other factor that could leave someone feeling left out or unsafe.

Inclusivity is about fostering an environment where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. By working to create a safer space, not only can festivals improve in this cultural moment, but it can also create a more positive and comfortable experience for all partygoers 🥳. Here are my tips for creating a culture of inclusivity at your next festival!

1. Provide Accessible Accommodations

One of the biggest ways to promote inclusivity in festivals is by making sure your accommodations are accessible for a wide range of people, including people with disabilities. From providing wheelchair-accessible paths, to having designated quiet areas for people on the autism spectrum, small changes in accommodations can make a big difference 🙌.

A picture of a wheelchair-accessible ramp leading up to the entrance of a festival

2. Anti-Harassment Policies

Harassment policies are designed to promote safety and comfort for everyone. Festival organizers should develop, communicate, and enforce anti-harassment policies that prohibit any form of harassment or discrimination. This could include verbal harassment, sexual harassment and physical harassment ✋. Attendees need to be aware of their rights and should know the steps they can take if they find themselves in a situation where they feel unsafe.

A sign displaying an anti-harassment policy

3. Inclusivity Goes Beyond Gender

Inclusivity goes far beyond simply including women in male-dominated spaces. To create a truly inclusive festival, organizers need to create environments that are welcoming, regardless of a person’s background or history. Promoting an inclusive festival culture can help break down barriers and create better relationships across different communities.

A group of diverse festivalgoers bonding and having a great time together

4. Recognize the Importance of Pronouns

Creating a culture of acceptance means recognizing the importance of pronouns. Attendees should always be referred to by their preferred pronouns. Festivals can encourage this by educating their team and attendees while adding pronouns as an optional field when purchasing tickets online. It’s a small change that could go a long way in making people feel comfortable and seen 👀.

A person holding a sign that says "My pronouns are they/them"

5. Celebrate Diversity in Music and Art

Music and art can uplift and create a sense of community. An excellent way to showcase and celebrate diversity is to invite different communities to share and participate in the festival. This could include inviting artists and musicians from diverse backgrounds who represent a wide range of genres and styles. When different communities are come together, it creates a sense of inclusion and shared experience 🎨🎶.

A diverse group of musicians playing music together on stage

By making festivals more inclusive and safer, everyone can not only enjoy themselves but also be part of a greater experience of community. With these tips and practices, we can make our festivals a place where everyone can see themselves and feel welcomed. 🤗

A large field with people dancing and enjoying a festival