ASK
Stop by our ASK (Access Support Krew) tent for assistance, a place to rest, or to get information on accessibility, including the best pathways to stages, vendors, workshop sites, washroom facilities, as well as medical suppliers. Braille schedules are also available at the ASK tent.
Download our Accessibility Policy here:
How To Register
Summerfolk is committed to offering exceptional service to its patrons by providing an environment that is inclusive, accessible, and respects the dignity and independence of people with disabilities. In order to help us maintain these standards, please advise the Summerfolk Festival Office Staff by calling us at 519-371-2995 prior to your visit if you are a person with a disability who requires assistance to participate in the festival, or in the event of an emergency evacuation.
Due to limited availability, only those patrons with an official Accessible Parking Permit recognized by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation will be able to park in the accessible parking area.
Fifteen (15) accessible parking spots are available at the front gate. If all of the designated accessible parking spots are occupied when you arrive, our parking volunteers will help you find a suitable parking alternative.
Follow this link to submit your accessible parking spot request:
Apply For Your Accessible Parking Space >>
Accessible Trails Our park offers a variety of pathways designed for easy access, including:
- Paved or Packed Dirt Pathways: Much of the park features paved or packed dirt pathways, providing smooth surfaces for strollers, wheelchairs, and those who prefer a more even terrain.
- Cement Path to the Amphitheatre: A dedicated cement path ensures easy access to the Amphitheatre, allowing everyone to enjoy events and performances.
- Paved Water-front Path: Enjoy a scenic stroll along the water on our paved pathway, which also extends through the Artisan area.
- Dirt/Gravel Roads: Please note that the areas where food vendors are located, as well as the Gazebo Wine Bar, are situated on dirt and gravel roads.
As part of Summerfolk’s commitment to respectfully accommodate our patrons with disabilities, service animals are welcome to attend the festival, as well as our offices, with those who require them.
Please note that all service animals will receive a band to be worn on their collar at the Accreditation tent near the Front entrance, beside the Box Office. This will allow Summerfolk volunteers to identify legitimate service animals on the festival grounds. Under the Human Rights Code and the AODA, service animals do not need to have certificates or identity cards.
One of two conditions must apply for your animal to be considered a service animal:
- The animal is easily identifiable as relating to your disability (for example, it is a guide dog or other animal wearing a vest or harness)
- You can provide documentation from a regulated health professional confirming the animal is required due to a disability.
It is important for service dogs to be identifiable to other patrons as well.
Some people have animal allergies, and the festival advertises and upholds a no dog policy. The owner of any dog on the festival site not wearing a band issued by the festival will be directed to Accreditation to verify their legitimacy as a service animal.
Other arrangements will need to be made if the service dog exhibits any negative behaviour such as barking, biting, growling or uncontrolled running.
Accessible seating areas will be located and clearly marked wherever possible. Accessible seating is available at the:
- Amphitheatre Stage
- Down by the Bay Stage
For patrons and their companions wishing to enter the accessible seating areas, please advise the volunteers located at the entrance to the venue.
Should you wish, the ASK Team will guide you to an accessible entrance and seating area.
Summerfolk welcomes Companions and Personal Support Workers who are providing assistance to patrons with special needs at the festival. At no time will a person with a disability be knowingly prevented from having access to personal support while on the festival premises.
A support person can be a paid professional, volunteer, family member or a friend. Recognized Companions and Personal Support Workers are admitted to the festival 50% off the admissions fee.
Children under 13 are admitted free. If they have a disability, their Personal Support Worker is also admitted to the festival free of charge.
To view the GBFS Persons with Disabilities Customer Service Policy, Click here.
There are accessible ‘port-a-potties’ in each bank of washrooms located throughout the festival site.
If they do not meet your needs, there are public accessible washroom near the Family Village/Gazebo Wine Bar area.
Festival Map
SEND US YOUR FEEDBACK
To help us ensure outstanding customer service for people with disabilities, we encourage your comments and feedback, whether positive or negative. Festival patrons who wish to comment on the way we serve and accommodate people with disabilities are encouraged to provide feedback in person at the ASK Tent, by telephone at 519-371-2995 or email info@summerfolk.org
All feedback including complaints will be handled by the Georgian Bay Folk Society President. Customers can expect to hear back within ten (10) business days.
