Awakenings Summer Festival Introduces Low-Stimulus Space for Visitors with Disabilities

Awakenings Summer Festival has taken a step towards inclusivity by introducing a dedicated low-stimulus space designed to cater to visitors with disabilities. Developed in collaboration with HandicapNL and Philips TV & Sound, this special area offers a serene and calming environment with specific amenities tailored to the needs of individuals who may require them. The space includes noise-cancelling headphones, soothing sounds, and tranquil imagery to create a peaceful atmosphere.

To provide further assistance, HandicapNL staff will be available within the space to offer guidance, supported by a medical volunteer who can provide additional care if needed. Additionally, a treatment room will be accessible for any required medical assistance. An attendant stationed at the entrance will ensure that only those genuinely in need of the space can enter, redirecting other visitors to various chill-out areas throughout the festival grounds.

Awakenings Summer Festival is scheduled to take place from July 7th to 9th, 2023, in Hilvarenbeek, the Netherlands. The lineup features renowned acts such as Amelie Lens, Adam Beyer, Ben Böhmer, Tale of Us, and more.

Nikki Schuurs, Sustainability Manager at Awakenings, expressed the festival’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “We strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to embrace the beauty of festivals. At Awakenings, we want to break down as many barriers as possible in the future, starting with the introduction of the low-stimulus space. By offering solutions and sharing knowledge, we hope to inspire other event organizers to make the festival industry more inclusive and accessible.”

Daniëlle Schuurmans, Director of HandicapNL, added, “Our goal is to create a world where people with disabilities face no restrictions in society. This often requires significant changes, and collaborations with frontrunners have a tremendous positive impact. In our shared vision of uniting people regardless of differences, we are thrilled to have Awakenings as one of our 10 festival partners.”