Listen to this article
Estimated 3 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
Festivalgoers attending this weekend’s ÎleSoniq music festival in Montreal will only be allowed to bring transparent bags onto the site, a last-minute policy change that has sparked online backlash from ticket holders.
The new rule was announced Monday, just days before the electronic music festival takes place Saturday and Sunday at Parc Jean-Drapeau.
In a since-deleted Instagram post, organizers said the policy is intended to speed up entry and improve safety. Ticket holders were also notified by email.
The policy applies to all backpacks, handbags and fanny packs, which must not exceed 30 by 30 by 23 centimetres.
Hydration packs, including vest-style and small hydration bags, will be permitted whether transparent or not, provided they are empty upon entry and inspected by security staff.
Medical bags, accessibility-related bags, diaper bags and other essential-care bags will also be allowed following a security inspection, as long as they meet the festival’s size requirements.
Policy raises availability, privacy concerns
The announcement prompted widespread criticism online, with many festivalgoers saying the change came too late for people who had already purchased bags months in advance.
Several commenters said transparent bags are not readily available and argued the policy creates an unnecessary burden only days before the event.
Others questioned whether the measure would improve security, noting that prohibited items could still be concealed in clothing. Some also raised privacy concerns, arguing that requiring transparent bags could expose sensitive medical supplies.
In an email to Radio-Canada, promoter Evenko said the policy will apply to all of its events at Parc Jean-Drapeau, including LASSO Montréal, a country music festival on Aug. 15 and 16.
The company said transparent bags will help streamline security screening and improve the flow of large crowds, adding that similar policies have already been adopted at other major festivals and events.
Evenko also said it revised the policy after receiving feedback from festivalgoers. While organizers had initially said hydration packs would not be permitted, they later reversed that decision and confirmed they will be allowed, subject to inspection.
The policy is similar albeit stricter to the one in effect at last weekend’s Osheaga festival at Parc Jean-Drapeau, where only transparent bags were generally permitted, with exceptions for hydration packs, essential medical and accessibility bags as well as smaller bags.