ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES AT PRIDE
We understand that our Festival Site at the Garrison Grounds is not accessible to everyone. We have been trying new efforts each year for the past number of years to make it as accessible as possible, but we recognize it will never be completely accessible to everyone, as many spaces are not. We engage the community and our Accessibility Coordinators each year to find ways to make the grounds physically accessible such as flattening the entrance gate, installing Mobi-mats, and filling holes on the field.
FESTIVAL SITE ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES
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Accessibility Committee & Coordinator
In the past, Halifax Pride has run an external Accessibility Committee made up of community members. The committee provided direct feedback and reccomendations on festival accessibility efforts. In recent years we have moved away from a committee model, and now conduct open topic-specific Community Consultations that are open to the publick to gather feedback.
During, and leading up to the festival, we alos contract an Accessibility Coordinator. This individual implements the recommendations of the committee, consults on existing Pride work and plans, and works on-site to ensure accessibility efforts are being prioritized.
Contact information for the Accessibility Coordinator will be available in the spring. Please reach out to fiona@halifaxpride.com with any immediate concerns or questions.
Accessible Festival Site Space
Drawing on community feedback from previous festivals, we have made several changes to our accessible space located on the Garrison grounds. We understand the challenges presented by the festival site, And actively encourage feedback from the community. This year, we are pleased to offer a dedicated accessible entrance to the site. We will also be offering a dedicated area for those needing to access flatter areas of the festival grounds, or more space. This space offers views of the main stage as well as a small bar to purchase beverages. Accessible washrooms will also be located throughout the festival site.
Information Booth
The Info Booth is located at the Sackville St entrance to the site, right beside the street before entering the gates. Volunteers at the booth are able to provide information about accessible entrances and exits, ASL interpretation, accessible seating on-site, sighted guides, and much more. They are also able to answer any questions you may have about the festival or site.
ASL Interpretation
American Sign Language interpretation is offered at all live, in-person entertainment events as well as all online events. We always try to centre ASL interpreters in a place that is easily viewable for guests, and place signage that easily indicates accessible viewing areas on-site.
Sober Space
After feedback from sober community members, we are introduced a Sober Space at all nighttime entertainment events in 2022. Returning in 2025, the space is being reimagined and we are excited to share plans in the spring. The space will offer mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages for sale.
ACCESSIBLE PARADE VIEWING
Halifax Pride strives to create an accessible festival and line up of events. The parade has many accessibility features to allow for a full experience for all our community members.
We encourage masking in all Accessible Viewing Areas.
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AccessibilE Parking
Accessible parking will be available in the Wanderers Lawn Bowling parking lot, directly across the street from the Accessible Viewing Areas. Parking passes will be required and can be picked up as you enter to park.
Location: TBA
Accessible Viewing Area
This is a designated, accessible area with available seating, shade, snacks, and a prime view of the parade. Volunteers will be on site to assist guests and answer questions.
Location: TBA
Described Viewing Area
The Described Viewing area offers live description of the parade and entries. The area is accessible, shaded, and offers seating.
Location: TBA
Masked Viewing Area
This space is for community members who wish to mask while watching the parade. The space is shaded, and located away from the crowds lining the streets. Masking is required in this area.
Location: TBA
Low Sensory Viewing Area
The Low Sensory Viewing Area is a quiet, sensory friendly, indoor viewing space, accessible by elevator. It includes snacks, seating, sensory activities, and volunteers to assist guests.
Location: 5640 Sackville St, Halifax, NS B3J 3Y3, Inside the John W. Lindsay YMCA. ID is required for check in at the front desk.
Live Stream
Live stream details will be available in June 2025.
