The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is the main global festival of creative communications. Each June, professionals from around the world gather in Cannes, France, to celebrate innovation in advertising, both in person and virtually. But it isn’t just about celebrating groundbreaking work in advertising and marketing. It’s also committed to making sure every attendee can participate fully, regardless of ability.
In 2025, the Festival doubles down on inclusivity and accessibility, thriving to make every voice heard and every individual feels welcomed. Whether you have mobility challenges, require quieter spaces, or need mental health support, Cannes Lions has put measures in place to make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
To ensure you make the most out of your experience at the Cannes Lions we prepared this guide on equitable access and participation in the festival activities.
Accessible Tours & Onsite Support
Long before you step onto the Palais des Festivals grounds, you can schedule an accessible tour of the festival perimeter. Hosted by the Cannes Lions team, these tours are designed to give you a comfortable, guided overview of the venue layout, including highlighting ramps, lifts, and other accessibility features.
Once the Cannes Lions 2025 app launches, you’ll be able to book these tours directly through the app. If the scheduled sessions don’t fit your timing, simply drop by the dedicated meeting point onsite, and the team will be happy to set up a tour at a time that works for you.
Throughout Festival hours, an accessibility team present onsite can guide you around the venue, help with last-minute accessibility requests, and provide assistance whenever needed.
Badge Collection & Priority Access
Your Festival badge is more than just entry credentials. It’s also a tool to communicate any special requirements. When you collect your badge at the Gare Maritime, look for an accessible desk located in the Fast Track lane, where staff members are ready to assist you.
If you have reduced mobility or other special needs, you can update your pass registration details online before you arrive or inform the team upon collection. A discreet icon printed on your badge signals to staff that you require priority services, such as line skip and reserved seating at the main stages. Never hesitate to reach out, the staff are on hand to help with any questions or adjustments.
Reserved Seating & Line Skip
One of the standout features for attendees with reduced mobility is the reserved seating at the Debussy and Lumière stages. These seats are positioned for optimal sightlines and comfort, ensuring you don’t miss any keynote presentations or panel discussions. Additionally, line skip privileges allow you to bypass regular queues at critical points, like venue entrances, popular exhibition areas, and certain networking events.
To activate these privileges, simply request them during online pass registration, at the Gare Maritime registration desks, or at any Info Desk once you’re onsite.
The Festival has also incorporated infrastructure adjustments: ramps, accessible lifts, and quiet lounges, so that both physical and sensory needs are accommodated seamlessly.
Interactive Festival Map
Navigating a large event can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the grounds. To alleviate this, the Cannes Lions 2025 app will feature a detailed interactive map. This map highlights all key accessibility features, including the locations of lifts, ramps, accessible entrances, and restrooms. It will also pinpoint quiet lounges and mental health aid stations, making it easy to find the nearest support space when you need a moment to regroup. By having this information at your fingertips, you can plan your day more efficiently and avoid unnecessary stress.
Travel Guidance
Getting to Cannes can be a logistical challenge, but the Cannes Lions website provides comprehensive travel information to make your journey straightforward. Whether you’re flying into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport or coming by train via Marseille or Paris, you’ll find guidance on accessible transport options. That includes taxis equipped for wheelchairs and shuttle services with ramp access. If you’re arriving by car, there are designated accessible parking spots near key pick-up points.
Before you set off, review the detailed travel guide on the Festival site to ensure you have all the necessary information about visas, transport options, and local accessibility services.
At EAS we understand that organising the logistics can be overwhelming and will be happy to handle the transportation for you. Contact us to organize your trip to the Cannes Festival.
Accessible Accommodation
Cannes and its surrounding areas offer a variety of accommodation options tailored to those with reduced mobility. Many hotels have rooms specifically designed to meet accessibility standards. Wider doorways, grab bars in bathrooms, and roll-in showers are often available. When booking, be sure to specify your requirements and confirm them directly with the hotel to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Each year, our EAS team attends Cannes Lions Festival and is ready to support guests with reduced mobility. We’ve built relationships with local hotels, apartments, and luxury villas, many offering accessible rooms and features. Reach out to us to discuss your specific needs, and we’ll help you find the perfect option from our portfolio.
If you need further assistance or information, Cannes Lions partners with Bnetwork, an accommodation service that can provide additional details on accessible rooms and any special arrangements you might need.
Equity, Representation & Accessibility Programme
Beyond onsite logistics, Cannes Lions is investing in long-term inclusivity through the Equity, Representation and Accessibility (ERA) Programme. This initiative aims to foster a diverse and inclusive representation of talent within the creative industry by allocating €2 million worth of complimentary Festival passes in 2025. The ERA Programme supports registered charities, not-for-profit organizations, and diverse-owned businesses, ensuring that underrepresented voices gain access to the Festival. Although it covers only Festival entry (not travel or accommodation), it’s a significant step toward increasing equity in global creativity conversations.
Sensory & Mental Health Considerations
Cannes Lions recognizes that accessibility extends beyond physical mobility. The Festival has created quiet lounges where attendees can unwind if they need a break from sensory overload. These spaces offer a calmer environment, free from the noise and crowds, and are monitored by mental health first aiders who can provide immediate support if needed.
The inclusion of such areas reflects a growing understanding that mental well-being is an important aspect of overall accessibility. It’s essential that everyone, regardless of sensory sensitivity, can enjoy the Festival without feeling overwhelmed.
Building an Inclusive Creative Community
Inclusivity and accessibility aren’t just buzzwords at Cannes Lions. They’re integral to the Festival’s ethics. By making structural changes, offering dedicated support, and creating programmes like ERA, Cannes Lions aims to build a truly inclusive environment where creativity thrives through diverse perspectives. In previous years, industry conversations at Cannes have increasingly reflected on how to drive practical outcomes for underrepresented communities rather than simply raising awareness. Awards and panel discussions highlight campaigns that push for genuine social impact and improved accessibility.
As you prepare to make the most of the Cannes Lions 2025 Festival, let EAS take care of the details with our tailored services for your corporate visit. From stress-free airport transfers and luxury accommodations to event planning and personalized concierge support, EAS handles everything with precision and professionalism.
Our experienced team is here to ensure a seamless, comfortable stay by booking venues, arranging private transport, and managing your schedule. With EAS as your trusted partner in Cannes, you can focus on networking, celebrating, and soaking up all the creative inspiration.
We look forward to welcoming you to Cannes and helping you create unforgettable memories during the festival. For more information on our services and to make your arrangements, please contact us.
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