After facing backlash for its transparent bag policy at ÎleSoniq, Montreal’s electronic music festival, it seems promoter Evenko won’t be invoking the same rules at upcoming festivals, Lasso Montreal and the Vans Warped Tour. According to both the Lasso and Warped Tour event websites, “the size and type of bags allowed on site are limited.” Though they “strongly encourage” the use of transparent bags, the following items are permitted: “Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis for items required for medical reasons after proper inspection,” Lasso organizers state. “Anyone requiring prescription medication at the festival must present the pharmacy-labelled container, showing prescription, dosage and patient name to our medical staff at the gate.” Online outrage Questions and outrage flew after Evenko introduced a strict transparent bag policy just days ahead of ÎleSoniq. Reaction was swift on social media, with attendees demanding that they be told earlier to accommodate what they called a last-minute requirement. Some said they were also worried that the move could mean lowered security. “I worry about my personal safety during the event as my belongings will be visible in my bag and pickpocketing is a big problem at festivals,” said festivalgoer and Concordia University PhD candidate Nina Nesdoly at the time. “I have a scarf to line the inside of my bag with once I’m through security so that people cannot see where my phone and wallet are.” Lasso Montreal is slated for Aug. 15 and 16, while the Vans Warped Tour is set for Aug. 21 and 22.
