2024

Virkkula, Minna; Hokkanen, Laura; Häkkilä, Jonna; Aro, Päivi

In this paper, we address the safety management when organizing a public festival. Large events bringing together thousands of people require organizing multiple parts that will integrate into one, seamless event. Safety is an essential component of social sustainability. As part of a successful event, it is important to proactively address safety-related issues from a visitor's point of view. In our study we will focus on event safety design, and better managing the safety at a music festival. The research was conducted at Varjo festival, organized in Scandinavia in summer 2023, utilizing a service design and user-centric approach. The main purpose was to identify aspects enhancing sense of safety and to generate design implications for event management. The findings are based on field observations and a survey-based user study (n=133) collected in situ. The results emphasize the significance of safety management through visible safety measures, and transparent communication about safety protocols. An inclusive atmosphere and principles of safe space are elements in ensuring responsible and safe experience for everyone. Furthermore, managing safety is a shared responsibility involving visitors. The paper identifies safety factors to create a list of practical design implications for ensuring safer and responsible festivals for visitors.