A Guide to Accessible U.S. Music Festivals

Music, regardless of the genre, is a language that’s spoken by many, and understood by all. Every year, there are dozens of great music festivals held throughout the country, and having a disability should never keep you from being able to fully experience the artists you love most.

So, we’ve scoured the festival scene and came back with some options that are the most accommodating and accessible to people living (and rocking out) with a disability.

Bonnaroo – June 8 – 11, 2017 – Manchester, Tennessee

Held over a four-day period during early summer, Bonnaroo has been a music staple of the Manchester, Tennessee area since 2002. Everyone from the Beastie Boys, Pearl Jam, and Stevie Wonder has graced Bonnaroo’s stages. With such star-studded lineups, event planners make sure that everyone is accommodated, so fans can have the best time possible.

Although Bonnaroo asks that you call ahead to secure any special accommodations, the event offers:

·       Accessible viewing areas near all stages

·       Assistive listening devices

·       Event-long passes for accessible camping

·       Guided tours for the blind

·       Rental options for motorized wheelchairs and scooters

·       Shuttle service from nearby airports to the venue

·       Sign language interpreters

You can learn more about Bonnaroo’s accessibility options by visiting their official website.

Firefly Music Festival – June 15 – 18, 2017 – Dover, Delaware

Established in 2012, the Firefly Music Festival has played host to legendary acts like The White Stripes, RJD2, The Black Keys, and many more. With an eclectic mix of alternative and indie artists, across multiple genres, Firefly is perfect for anyone who likes to be on the cutting edge of the new music scene.

Firefly also makes it a priority to accommodate concert goers with the following amenities:

·       Access to elevated viewing platforms

·       Accessible parking with verified ADA placard or license plate

·       Accessible shuttles to and from nearby hotels and airports

·       Preferred camping spaces for people with disability needs

·       Ability to recharge motorized scooters at the Access Center

·       Assisted listening devices available upon request

Learn more about all of Firefly’s accessibility resources on their official website.

Lollapalooza – August 3 – 6, 2017 – Chicago

The premier music festival of the Midwest, Lollapalooza is held near the end of the summer in the heart of Chicago. Everyone from The Red Hot Chili Peppers to Frank Ocean, Lady Gaga, and more have performed.

For attendees, Lollapalooza has a wealth of resources to help you have the best festival experience possible, including:

·       Venue-wide wheelchair accessibility

·       Special designated festival entrance

·       Access Center, providing additional resources and wheelchair charging stations

·       ADA wristband program for mobility impairments or deaf/hard of hearing

·       Sign language interpreters for all acts

More information about their accessibility option can be found on their official website.

The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for caregivers and drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a handicap accessible car, truck or van, please consider one of our Quality Assurance Program mobility equipment dealers.