For the first time ever, the Barefoot Country Music Fest (BCMF) – one of the biggest and most popular outdoor music festivals in the country – will become sensory inclusive thanks to a newly-formed partnership with the Eagles Autism Foundation. Hosted annually on the beach in Wildwood, NJ, the four-day event will feature 40-plus artists from the industry's top performers with Blake Shelton, Kid Rock, Darius Rucker, and Jon Pardi headlining. The 4th annual BCMF is scheduled for June 15-18, 2023, and will include five stages spread across the beach between Morey's Piers.
To help create and foster a more accommodating experience for guests, including individuals with sensory sensitivities, the Eagles Autism Foundation will provide essential resources, such as visual schedules and sensory bags.
By purchasing tickets using the Eagles custom link and promo code, a portion of the ticket sale will benefit the Eagles Autism Foundation. Tickets can be purchased at https://bcmfest.com/eagles using the promo code: EAGLESAUTISM.
"We are thrilled to partner with Barefoot Country Music Fest to help create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all guests," said Ryan Hammond, Executive Director, Eagles Autism Foundation. "Throughout our conversations, it was clear that providing the necessary accommodations for those with sensory needs was an important priority for the festival and its performers. It is a genuine partnership like this that truly exemplifies what it means to take action for the autism community and to promote a culture of compassion and acceptance for all."
In addition, KultureCity, which certified Lincoln Financial Field as a sensory inclusive stadium in 2019, will bring along its Sensory Activation Vehicle to serve as a mobile sensory room for guests in need.
"Through our support of the Barefoot Country Music Fest, we want to help cultivate an environment where individuals of all abilities can enjoy the experience in a comfortable and relaxing setting," said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity.
In an effort to help raise additional funds, the Eagles Autism Foundation and BCMF will offer special experience packages and signed memorabilia through an exclusive auction. Items will include a VIP ticket package to the 2023 Eagles home opener, Eagles gameday fan tunnel experience at Lincoln Financial Field, exclusive dining experience with an Eagles player and world-famous chef Jose Garces, autographed jerseys, helmets, posters, guitars, and more.
"We look forward to welcoming the Eagles Autism Foundation and KultureCity to the Barefoot Country Music Fest this summer," said Bob Durkin of Barefoot Country Music Fest. "Their proven track records and experience in caring for those with autism and developmental disabilities will surely help transform our fan experience. Prioritizing the needs of all guests is of the utmost importance to us, so forming this partnership and calling on their expertise is going to add another layer to the overall experience."
For more information on the Barefoot Country Music Fest, please visit barefootcountrymusicfest.com.
About Eagles Autism Foundation
The Eagles Autism Foundation is dedicated to raising funds for innovative autism research and care programs. By providing the necessary resources to doctors and scientists at leading institutions, we will be able to assist those currently affected by autism, as well as future generations. The Foundation aims to inspire and engage the community, so together, we can provide much-needed support to make a lasting impact in the field of autism. Please visit EaglesAutismFoundation.org.
About Barefoot Country Music Fest
Barefoot Country Music Fest (BCMF), the Northeast's largest outdoor country music fest, is located in Wildwood, NJ, between the famous Morey's Piers on the beach. BCMF is host to the industry's biggest stars with 40+ artists slated for June 16-19, 2022, bringing a unique blend of today's country headliners, regional stars, up-and-comers, and locals favorites. With the combination of country music and the scenic Wildwood's backdrop, this family-friendly, four-day fest is a summer vacation destination.
About KultureCity
KultureCity is a leading nonprofit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program's inception, KultureCity has created over 1,000 sensory-inclusive venues in six countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All-Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers' Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award. KultureCity was named one of the World's Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.