Accessibility Services
At Midwest FurFest, we believe that everyone deserves a fun and enjoyable weekend. The Accessibility Services Department was established in 2019 to better support attendees with disabilities. Our team is led and primarily staffed by disabled individuals who bring lived experience to the work we do. While we may not always have the perfect solution, we’ll do our utmost to offer suggestions or resources that meet some or all of your needs.
Registration Queue
If standing in long lines is a challenge, we’ve got you covered! An Accessibility queue is available during badge pickup. If you need help locating it, just ask any staff member wearing a vest.
This line is reserved for attendees with disabilities. Exceptions are made for those picking up a courtesy badge (such as a parent, caregiver, or assistant). Friends and partners should use the main registration lines.
Accessibility Wristbands
This credential will help FurFest staff identify attendees who need priority access to event and elevator lines. Each wristband holder may have one (1) person accompany them.
If you’re using the Accessibility queue during badge pickup, you’ll receive a wristband at that time. Wristbands are also available throughout the weekend at the Accessibility Services Office.
Sign Language Interpretation
American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation is provided for all major events, including Opening Ceremonies, Fursuit Dance Competition, Floor Wars, and Closing Ceremonies.
A limited number of interpreters may be available. We strongly recommend submitting requests via our Service Desk at least two weeks prior to the convention. While we will do our best to accommodate last-minute needs, individual services are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Quiet Room
The Quiet Room offers a low-stimulation space for attendees who need a break from the noise, lights, and crowds of the convention. For locations, hours, and rules please check the Convention Schedule.
Color Communication Badges
Large crowds can be overwhelming. These optional tags attach to your convention badge and help you quickly communicate your interaction preferences non-verbally. These badges were adapted from guidelines provided by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network.
You can pick up a set for free at the Accessibility Services Office, Registration, or Info Desks.
Service Animals
Midwest FurFest recognizes service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act Act (ADA) and Illinois Service Animal Access Act. A service animal must be trained to perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. At this time, that does not include emotional support animals, nor does it include service animals other than dogs and miniature horses.
Service animals must be leashed (unless prevented by their handler’s disability or access need) at all times and under handler control. Service animals who are aggressive or disruptive may be asked to be removed from the convention space. Attendees are reminded that service animals are working animals and should not distract or attempt to pet them.
Gender Neutral Bathrooms
Gender neutral bathrooms will be available. If you need help locating one, just, ask the Accessibility Department or visit any Info Desk. Please note that some public restrooms may use binary signage such as “Men” and “Women”.
We recognize that some disabilities are invisible and that accommodations are not always one-size-fits-all. If you have needs beyond what’s listed here, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Although the convention seeks to minimize barriers as much as possible, we are limited by finances, logistics, facilities, and critter staffing. We always welcome suggestions and resources to help make Midwest FurFest more accessible.
Additional Questions?
Please check out our Accessibility FAQ.