Support Persons and Service Animals
Support persons are permitted on the festival grounds without additional cost above the admission price for the patron with a disability (one support person per person with a disability). Support person access to match ticket type access of the originally purchased ticket, except in VIP Club Reserved Seating and on the Platinum Table of 4 platform, where everyone over 3 years of age will require a ticket. Please identify your support person when you arrive at the festival gate and we will assist you. There is a separate accessibility line available at Gate 2 for entrance, on Vimy close to the Museum.
We accept the Access 2 Card as part of our accessibility policy. However, this is not a ticket to the park. It is proof of disability that qualifies a patron for the free attendant pass. The patron with a disability still requires a ticket. Show your Access 2 Card at the Gates to obtain your free pass there. If you do not have an Access 2 Card we will require some form of proof. Support person passes are obtained at the Accessibility Gate (Gate 2) on a daily basis upon entry.
Patrons with disabilities are welcome to bring trained service animals. No pets allowed. Note that the venue is a large-scale outdoor music event and large crowds, loud noises, and other stimulus elements are present.
Travel
LeBreton Flats is served by Para-Transpo. Para Transpo Drop Off: Southbound on Booth Street, next to the Museum between Vimy Place and the rear loading dock of the Museum, (Gate 2). Please be aware of road closures beginning at 5:00 PM and plan accordingly.
Public parking is not available in the Canadian War Museum. No prepaid passes will be issued for this lot.
Due to the ground’s natural terrain and size, we recommend using paved pathways to navigate the site. Cable protectors are in place to ensure mobility devices can move without impediment.
Viewing
Collapsible lawn chairs are permitted in the lawn chair section and we encourage those who may have difficulty standing and or physical handicap issues to bring them.
There is an elevated accessibility platform on the *South side of the main bowl designated for patrons using wheelchairs with a view of the RBC Stage. The patron and one attendant are welcome to access the platform at no additional cost. Please note that if the platform is at capacity there may be a wait.
*New location for 2024
An alternate accessible viewing area is on Vimy Place; this is closed to vehicular traffic and features big-screen displays of the RBC Stage that are viewable from a seated position.
Environment
Please be aware that shows may feature strobe lights, loud noises, and other visual and physical stimuli. We encourage patrons who may be adversely affected by these elements to look into the artists' live performances (including audio/video) and to plan accordingly.
Amenities
Accessible portable washrooms are located throughout the site, and indoor washroom facilities are located inside the Canadian War Museum and operational during event hours.
A-Team volunteers will be roaming the site and stationed in the A-Team Tent (near the Info Booth in the main bowl) to offer guidance and light support for accessibility issues as needed. The festival does not provide personal care or golf cart rides.
Whimble will partner with Ottawa Bluesfest once again this summer, offering on-site personal care attendants for people with disabilities.
Whimble will be onsite for the duration of the festival and will be available to assist with typical activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathroom breaks, eating or drinking, etc.
Inside the Canadian War Museum, there is an air-conditioned lounge for patrons to rest from the outdoor elements. The lounge may occasionally feature music and screens to view the Barney Danson stage when in session. Other quieter areas include the Accora Village Big Chill outdoor zone, which is open to all. The Accora Village Big Chill zone will host a daily DJ at the Accora Village Spin Stage.
The SiriusXM Stage in Bluesville is tented and protected from outdoor weather elements.
Service for the Hearing Impaired (Barney Danson Theatre performances)
For all performances in the Barney Danson Theatre, service is available on FM frequencies broadcasting a continuous signal. FM receivers are available for patrons to borrow. Please check in at the ticket desk upon arrival to sign out a device receiver. Kindly return the receiver at the end of the show to the ticket desk.
Feedback
The festival is continually exploring accessibility-related initiatives and additional ways to communicate resources. If you have any other questions, please let us know - we're happy to help!