Our guidelines for a safe Paradise City.

Dear People of Paradise,

Paradise City is a shared space for kindness, creativity, music and enjoyment. Our goal has always been to create a warm and welcoming experience for everyone attending. We want to contribute to a safer and more inclusive music scene. We use the term “safer” instead of “safe” intentionally. Bringing together a diverse group of people always comes with some level of unpredictability. We can’t control every situation or every individual, but we do believe it’s a shared responsibility to look after the wellbeing of visitors, artists and crew. By entering the festival, you become part of that responsibility. Creating a respectful and comfortable atmosphere is something we do together. Looking out for each other is simply part of being human. Help one another, and treat others, and yourself, with respect. Here are a few guidelines to help keep things positive. Take your time to read them.

A zero-tolerance policy

We celebrate the uniqueness of our visitors and aim to create a space where everyone feels welcome and accepted. Ensuring everyone’s well-being is our priority. We know that many people have experienced situations that made them feel unsafe or uncomfortable. That’s why we apply a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and any form of intimidation. Physical or psychological violence is not accepted. Bullying, harassment, theft or vandalism will not be tolerated.

We do not accept any form of discrimination, including sexism, racism, ableism, homo- or transphobia, or any other form of bias. Safety is not a trend. It’s a basic human right. If you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, unwell, or experience unwanted behaviour, please reach out to our Angels. You can also inform security, bar staff or any crew member, who will connect you with them. The Angels of Paradise are easy to recognise by their pink vests and are present throughout the festival. They are trained and informed, and here to help as best as they can. Any breach of these rules may lead to removal from the festival.

Boundaries and personal space

Be aware of your own boundaries and respect others' boundaries. The energy you bring matters. We ask everyone to respect personal space, especially while dancing. Consent is key. Only a clear and enthusiastic “yes” means “yes”. Respect the identities, bodies and expressions of the people around you. This space belongs to everyone. Avoid comments or behaviour that could be discriminatory or inappropriate, whether related to appearance, gender expression, sexuality, religion, disability or ethnicity. At Paradise City, everyone is welcome as they are. Respecting each other’s bodies and boundaries is what keeps the atmosphere open and enjoyable for all.

Drugs

Drug use is not allowed on our premises. At the same time, we believe it’s important to talk openly about the reality of substance use and reduce its risks. Visit our drug policy page for more information on how we handle this. Anyone found to be drugging someone without their knowledge will be reported to the authorities immediately. Be aware of how substances, including alcohol, affect your behaviour. Stay hydrated, know your limits and take care of your physical and mental well-being. Look out for your friends. You decide what you consume. Everyone experiences the festival in their own way. There’s no shame in staying sober, and no hesitation needed to ask for help.

Protect your ears

Even though we monitor sound levels, it’s still worth protecting your hearing. Free foam earplugs are available at the Info Point. Please dispose of them properly after use.

Respect our location

We do everything we can to host the festival in this unique setting. Keeping it that way depends on everyone. Be mindful of your waste. Use the ashtrays provided or keep cigarette butts with you until you find a bin. If you don’t have an ashtray, ask someone nearby or use the closest bin. The same applies to all litter. Use the bins. Use the toilets, that’s what they’re there for. And if you’re staying at the campsite, take care of your waste there too. You can find more information about our environmental approach on our sustainability page.

The Angels of Paradise

If you have any questions or run into an issue, the Angels of Paradise are there to help. You can recognise them by their pink vests. They are trained to handle different situations and will guide you where needed. No issue is too small. If someone around you needs help, don’t hesitate. Stay with them and alert an Angel immediately. There is also a Healing Room and a first aid post on-site. Be an active bystander. Looking out for each other doesn’t stop at the festival. Keep an eye on your friends on the way home as well. If something happened during the festival that you’d like to report afterwards, you can always contact us confidentially via tellus@paradisecity.be.