At the Banff World Media Festival, we want to make sure that all attendee experiences at our events are accessible and inclusive.

To support our commitment, we have partnered with the Disability Screen Office (DSO) - a national, disability-led, not-for-profit organization that works with the Canadian screen industry to eliminate accessibility barriers, and foster authentic and meaningful disability representation on and off the screen. With this partnership, we join and support the DSO’s mission to enhance accessibility and disability inclusion in the Canadian screen industry.

This year at the Festival, the following accessibility measures are provided:

• Integration and implementation of captioning on screens during sessions and on video recordings
• Introduction of a quiet recharge zone to reset and unplug away from the crowds (Hush Hub)
• Improved navigation around the venue: clear signage for accessible routes to the restrooms, Hush Hub, elevators, and subsidized meal kiosks
• Introduction of specially designated lanyards to indicate accessibility needs
• Introduction of self-description practices during sessions
• Accommodation of Companion Passes & service animal access
• Availability of local resources for mobility assistance, supported by the DSO
• Opportunity to collect feedback related to accessibility measures at the Festival in the post-event delegate survey

For information about the DSO, please contact Elspeth Arbow at Elspeth.arbow@dso-orphe.ca.

For information about the Banff World Media Festival accessibility services, please contact us at bwmfcustomercare@brunico.com. In the meantime, here are some general Q&As to help you understand the service options that will be available at the festival.

How do I request an accessible hotel room?

A reservation agent at any of the Banff hotels is happy to discuss availability and details about accessible guest rooms. Call the regular reservations line. Please feel free to share any other details that are important for your visit.

Wheelchair accessibility and mobility

BANFF takes place at the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel. The front entrance, as well as entrances to all onsite event spaces and restaurants, are wheelchair-accessible.

There are a few meeting rooms with stairs however wheelchair access details are included below:

• Ivor Petrak Room - access is through the Upper Rundle Lounge
• The Alhambra Room - access in through the hallway beside the Angus Room
• The Theatre in the Conference Centre - access is through the front doors, accessible seating is provided just inside the entrance.

For information about accessibility accommodations at the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel please check out their accessibility page on their website.

Are there accessible washrooms on all floors where the festival is taking place?

There are wheelchair accessible washrooms on all levels of the Banff Springs hotel as well as the Banff Springs Conference Centre.

Do you provide companion passes for support persons?

Any attendee who requires the physical assistance of a support person can request a Companion Pass at no extra charge. This support person must accompany the attendee needing assistance in order to be permitted to enter sessions and networking events. Please email: bwmfcustomercare@brunico.com to discuss your needs.

Do you allow service animals at the event?

BANFF welcomes ACA-recognized service animals that are trained and certified to do work or perform tasks for people with physical disabilities. Animals that provide comfort or emotional support (ESA) are also permitted in the Banff Springs hotel.

The animal must have the service animal vest on that indicates they are a service animal upon entry into meeting rooms and food and beverage events.

Please note these are guidelines for the Banff Springs hotel, if you are staying at a different hotel during your stay in Banff, please check their guidelines for service animals when booking your accommodations.