In our weekly post we tell you everything you need to know about the accessibility of this famous event.
Attending the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is a unique and transformative experience. Thousands of people listen to their favorite artists live and witness a spectacular performance. Likewise, the opportunity to meet people with whom to share artistic concerns and a moment of fun is born.
The famous festival in Indio was held for the first time in the year 1999. It had financial difficulties in its beginnings, but its popularity has increased over time. Currently, such is its popularity that you will have heard about the “Coachella style”, known for being a mixture of bohemian, hippie and rock clothes, with influences from Californian fashion.
This 2023, the first week of the event was held from April 14 to 16. The second week is scheduled from the 21st to the 23rd of this month. It also has the presence of exponents such as Bad Bunny, Becky G, Blackpink, Calvin Harris, Frank Ocean, Gorillaz and Björk, among others.
Inclusive festival
Some attendees stay at hotels in the area, while others decide to camp on the event grounds. People with disabilities also have that freedom to choose. The festival has an accessible camping area, located near the entrance in lot 8, which gives access to accessible bathrooms with roll-in showers.
Users can go to any of the three Accessibility Services centers to obtain an ADA bracelet and ask questions about the festival’s facilities.
You should bear in mind that the venue’s terrain is mostly grass, but it is possible to get around with a wheelchair, scooter, crutches, canes or walkers. If you think that moving between the scenarios may be difficult, we recommend you go with a companion.
If you use an electric wheelchair, you may charge it at the Accessibility Service Center. However, the interested party must bring the relevant accessories and cables.
The crowd won’t stop you from seeing your most beloved singers. Stages feature higher, accessible viewing platforms for people with disabilities and a companion.
As for transportation, you should know that accessible buses and transportation services are available to any attendant with a disability (it is necessary to request the service in advance). If you are traveling by car, you can leave your vehicle in the ADA parking lot located in lot 14C.
The event welcomes people with different types of disabilities, so it also provides other services such as a sign language interpreter, subtitles, sensory support space or food stalls with gluten-free foods. There are also medical personnel at different points.
Recently, Teen Vogue collected the experiences of different young people with disabilities at Coachella. Although inclusivity is pushed for every year, there are still aspects to improve. We advise you to read it to get a realistic perspective on the festival.
Share your experience with us if you have attended this year or in the past! Now that you know more about its accessibility, will you be attending in the future?
Sources: Coachella ADA, Coachella, Teen Vogue and StyleCraze
