Beyond Darklands

Our family

Diversity and inclusivity of all are not just positives for those who are often under-represented among our number, but enhance our whole community by expanding the ethos and feel of Beyond Darklands.

Not every event has to be designed to fit everyone, but keeping diversity & inclusivity at the forefront of our minds when planning Beyond Darklands for its intended audience will help us continue to move forward. Values we’d love to share with our visiting guests.

FAQS

Yes, most areas of the festival and the parties at Waagnatie are accessible by wheelchair. We do our best to keep paths clear by suspending cables and covering drains where possible.

Please note that some level differences in the playroom and Alpha Lounge involve stairs. If you need assistance accessing the Alpha Lounge with a wheelchair, our staff will be happy to help. Many of our guests are also more than willing to lend a hand—because at Beyond Darklands, we’re family.

Yes. Most of the shows and performances on the main stage will include sign-language interpretation in International Sign Language. This is part of our effort to make the event more accessible to deaf and hard of hearing members of our community.

If you have any questions or specific needs, feel free to contact Customer Relations at cr@darklands.be.

This service is made possible thanks to the generous support of Lola McQueen, one of our beloved drag queens, and our amazing team of interpreters. We’re deeply grateful for the inclusivity they bring to the festival.

We want everyone to feel welcome and included at Beyond Darklands. Here’s how we support guests with accessibility needs:

Wheelchair access: Most areas of the festival and parties at Waagnatie are wheelchair accessible. We do our best to suspend cables and cover drains to keep paths clear. Some elevated sections in the playroom and Alpha Lounge require stairs. If you’d like to access the Alpha Lounge in a wheelchair, our staff will gladly assist you—and so will many of our guests. We’re family, after all.

Disabled parking: If you need a parking space close to the entrance, email cr@darklands.be at least three weeks before the event to request a disabled parking permit. Spaces are limited, so contact us early once you’ve decided to attend.

Sign-language interpretation: Most main stage performances include International Sign Language interpretation to support deaf and hard of hearing guests. For questions or special requests, reach out to cr@darklands.be.

We’re proud to offer these services thanks to the incredible support of Lola McQueen and our amazing team of interpreters. Their efforts help make Beyond Darklands more inclusive for everyone.

Medication is allowed if it is needed for health reasons. However, you must be able to show a valid medical prescription or certificate if asked by staff or security.

Without proper documentation, the medication may not be permitted inside the venue. Always carry proof to avoid any issues.

No, personal food or beverages are generally not allowed at the event. However, if you have medical dietary restrictions (such as gluten or lactose intolerance), you may bring your own food as long as you can present a valid medical certificate.

Be prepared to show this documentation if requested by staff or security.

We recognize that some environments at the festival may feel overwhelming for neurodivergent individuals due to strobe lighting, loud music, and crowded spaces.

To help make your experience more comfortable, we offer the following support:

  • Free earplugs are available at the Beyond Darklands merchandise shop.
  • You are always welcome to step outside for a break and return at your own pace.
  • Some areas tend to be less crowded at off-peak times.

During the nighttime parties, one of the Masterclass Classrooms will be open as a Low Stimulus Room for those who need a quieter space to decompress.

Your well-being matters. Take what you need, when you need it.

Absolutely. Trans+ guests are welcome at Beyond Darklands, and we’re committed to creating spaces where everyone feels seen and respected.

  • During daytime events, all gender identities are welcome, including trans men, trans women, non-binary, agender, and gender-diverse individuals.
  • Our nighttime parties are male-centric spaces. These are open to those who feel comfortable in that setting, including cis men, trans men, masc-presenting, and androgynous non-binary people.
  • Trans women, cis women, and non-masculine presenting guests are warmly invited to enjoy all Daytime Festival activities.

For those who identify as female, lesbian, intersex, non-binary, transgender, or agender, our FLINTA program offers a welcoming and safe space to explore, connect, and engage with the fetish scene.

At Beyond Darklands, everyone belongs. The FLINTA program is one way we’re making sure no one is left out.

More about our FLINTA program

Yes. The Daytime Festival is open to everyone, including female guests. You are warmly invited to explore the event, connect with others, and enjoy everything the daytime program has to offer.

Please note that the nighttime parties are male-centric spaces. These are intended for those who feel comfortable in that environment.

For guests who identify as female, lesbian, intersex, non-binary, transgender, or agender, our FLINTA program offers a safe and inclusive space to engage with the fetish community. It is a space to explore, learn, and connect with others in a welcoming environment.

At Beyond Darklands, we believe in creating room for everyone. The FLINTA program is our way of making sure no one is left out.

More about our FLINTA program