Accessibility

Accessibility at Big Ears

Big Ears Welcomes all Music Lovers!

The festival takes place over four days in more than a dozen indoor venues, including theaters, churches, clubs, and other public buildings all within an approximately three-quarter-mile corridor in downtown Knoxville. Big Ears Festival venues are ADA accessible in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, though the exact accessibility specifications vary based on the venue.

This page is intended to assist festival patrons with advance planning and answering any questions.

Patrons with Mobility Limitations

All venues are wheelchair accessible. In some instances, due to capacity issues, venues may have accessible viewing areas designated for wheelchair users available on a first-come, first-serve basis. (Please visit venue websites for detailed information about their Accessibility policies, or contact us.)

Public Transportation

Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) buses and free trolleys are accessible. See detailed information here: www.katbus.com

During the festival, extra trolleys will run special routes– especially for Big Ears attendees – details will be available by March 15.

Parking

There are many convenient garages and lots in downtown Knoxville.

See:  https://www.downtownknoxville.org/explore/parking/?t[]=37

Outdoor Events

Big Ears programming also includes outdoor concerts, free to all, which will be announced closer to the dates of the festival. These events will take place on accessible surface lots as well as city streets. Festival maps and information will be updated as outdoor programs are confirmed.

Additional Help
Be sure to ask the Big Ears staff for any additional accessibility information when you check in at the box office to collect your festival pass. This may include questions about specific venues; information relevant to festival patrons with disabilities; maps and other programming information.

Questions? Email us: [email protected]