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AccessibleEU

Tallinn Maritime Days 2024 – Advancing Accessibility in Large-Scale Public Events - Estonia

Country
  • Estonia
Scope of application
  • Tourism
Type of organisation
  • Public administration
Organisation responsible
  • Tallinn City Government

In July 2024, Tallinn hosted the Tallinn Maritime Days (Tallinna Merepäevad), Estonia's largest maritime and family festival, with a renewed focus on accessibility and inclusivity.

Spanning multiple harbors--including the Old City Harbour Cruise Area, Seaplane Harbour, and Noblessner Marina--the event integrated various accessibility features to accommodate visitors with diverse needs.

Key initiatives included the establishment of an Accessibility Area at the Old City Harbour Cruise Area, providing information on accessibility options and daily life for people with special needs. Collaborations with organizations such as the North Estonian Association of the Blind, Estonian Association of the Blind Masseurs, Estonian Association of People with Mobility Disabilities, and the Estonian Association of the Hard of Hearing ensured expert input and presence during the festival.

Interactive experiences, such as blindfolded adventures led by blind guide Julia Kabanova and wheelchair adventures, offered attendees insight into the experiences of individuals with disabilities. Sign language interpretation and written translation were provided for key concerts, including the opening concert "Lainel" and the "Vana madrus" concert, enhancing accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors.

Additional measures included the installation of hearing loops at information points, tactile maps, and the provision of subtitles for performances. The festival also featured guided tours in Estonian sign language and simple language, ensuring that information was accessible to a broader audience.

More about Tallinn Maritime Days (Tallinna Merepäevad).