Whimble x 2025 Bluesfest/CityFolk Case Study
Building Inclusive Festival Experiences
Overview / Introduction
Ottawa Bluesfest and CityFolk Festival are two of Ottawa’s most beloved outdoor music events, which draw hundreds of thousands of fans each summer. 2025 marked the third summer that Whimble partnered with the organizing team behind both events to ensure accessibility and inclusion are front and center. Through on-site attendant support, Whimble helps patrons with disabilities and/or mobility limitations fully enjoy the festival experience. This partnership underscores a shared goal: making major cultural events truly accessible to everyone.
The Challenge
Large-scale festivals can pose significant accessibility barriers. Crowded spaces, uneven terrain, limited seating, and inclement weather can make it difficult for patrons with disabilities to participate comfortably.
The Bluesfest/CityFolk volunteer engagement team has already built a strong network of committed volunteers who are dedicated to supporting patrons with disabilities with ‘light assistance’ such as navigation and managing the accessible viewing platforms. However, the volunteers are limited in their ability to offer more personal supports around Activities of Daily Living, such as assistance with toileting and food and beverages.
The Solution
At each festival, Whimble deploys a trained team of attendants to assist at various touchpoints including the ParaTranspo dropoff/pickup point, the Accessibility info tent, and the accessible viewing platform. Our role is to offer direct, flexible support based on each patron or volunteer’s individual needs.
Attendants assist patrons and volunteers with:
Washroom breaksPurchasing and consuming food and beverages
Putting on/taking off rain gear
Providing temporary support if an individual’s companion or private worker requires a break
Navigation assistance around the site for patrons who are blind or low-vision, and helping them find safe spaces to enjoy the music
Locating & communicating with ParaTranspo staff
Navigating crowds to public transportation stations
Refilling water bottles
Offering general comfort assistance
Whimble’s presence ensures that every festivalgoer can experience the joy of live music in a safe and dignified way.
The Results / Impact
Survey responses showed overwhelmingly positive outcomes:
100% of respondents said they would recommend Whimble to a friend.
Average ratings (out of 5):
Ease of tracking attendants – 4.6
Waiting time for assistance – 4.8
Attendant competence and ability to follow care instructions – 4.3
Overall satisfaction with Whimble support – 4.7
Patrons have highlighted that attendants were “always available to help,” “made me feel comfortable and safe,” and “ensured my companion could enjoy the event too.”
One attendee shared:
“It’s always wonderful to see the Whimble team at an event. The attendants helped me eat my food, assisted me with merchandise, and were always nearby when needed.”
Voices from the Community
“The attendants themselves were amazing.”
“My companion really appreciated having an extra hand to help us out.”
“Whimble makes the festival feel welcoming and manageable. Without them, I wouldn’t attend.”
Partner Testimonial
“Our accessibility team acknowledged gaps they encountered as volunteers working with patrons that impacted patron care; Whimble was able "to bridge the gap" and assist our patrons in a way our volunteers couldn't before. It's one thing to be organizationally structured well, though another to have good staff/PSWs, glad Whimble has both!” - Organizer, Ottawa Bluesfest
This partnership demonstrates the powerful impact potential of dedicated personal care support at large events.
As festivals continue to grow, Whimble’s model provides a practical roadmap for inclusive event design, proving that accessibility is the foundation for community participation and joy.