Admission & Event Guidelines
SelassieFest celebrates the sacred herb as part of our roots heritage. We welcome responsible, legal cannabis consumption in designated areas. Please review our BYOC policy and wind‑conscious smoking zones to ensure a safe and family‑friendly environment.
Cultural Respect
This festival honors His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I and the living traditions of Rastafari, Ethiopian, and Jamaican heritage. We expect all attendees to maintain a peaceful, respectful, and family‑friendly attitude. Offensive language, discrimination, or disruptive behavior will result in immediate expulsion without refund.
BYOC – Bring Your Own Cannabis
Personal cannabis consumption is permitted only in designated smoking zones (see map). Adults 21+ may bring personal flower or pre‑rolls. No sale or barter. Licensed medical patients must carry valid ID and doctor’s recommendation.
Wind‑conscious areas: Smoking zones are positioned downwind from family zones, youth village, and healing grove. Please be mindful of wind direction and keep smoke away from walkways and children. Vape pens allowed only in smoking zones.
Prohibited Items
- Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives, pepper spray, tasers)
- Unlicensed / black‑market cannabis products (licensed personal stash only)
- Alcoholic beverages (beer & wine sold by licensed vendors inside)
- Glass containers of any type
- Laser pointers, fireworks, or explosives
- Large signs, flags on poles, or any item that obstructs views
- Drones or remote aircraft
- Professional recording equipment (detachable lenses >2", tripods, GoPro sticks)
Permitted Items
- ONE factory‑sealed water bottle (up to 1L) – free refill stations inside
- Personal umbrellas (small, no sharp metal tips)
- Foldable lawn chairs or low‑profile camping chairs (main stage lawn only)
- Small blankets or tarps (no stakes)
- Point‑and‑shoot cameras & smartphones for personal use
- Earplugs, sunscreen (non‑aerosol), empty reusable water bottles, personal hydration packs
Smoking & Vaping Policy (Cannabis Friendly)
Smoking (tobacco, herbal, cannabis) and vaping are strictly prohibited inside the main festival grounds, except in clearly marked designated outdoor zones (look for signage, sand bins, and wind socks).
Wind‑conscious smoking: Please stand within the roped areas and always face away from non‑smoking zones. If wind shifts, move to the downwind side of the zone.
100% smoke‑free zones: Youth Village, Healing Grove, Ital Food Marketplace, and all children’s activity areas. Respect families and non‑smokers.
Disposal: Use provided sand bins. Do not toss butts or ash on the ground. One Love.
Bag & Security
- Clear bags (max 12"x6"x12") or small clutches (≤6"x9")
- Backpacks, large totes, or bags >12"x12" prohibited
- All bags subject to search at entrance. No re‑entry after 6 PM.
Pet Policy
Only certified service animals are allowed. Emotional support animals and pets must remain at home. Service animals must be leashed and under control.
SelassieFest acknowledges cannabis as a sacrament and tool for higher learning. To protect our youth and community:
• No sharing with minors – strictly 21+ (ID check at designated zone entrance).
• Medical patients: Please carry state‑issued ID and registry card. No public intoxication.
• Wind awareness: All smoking zones include wind direction indicators. If smoke drifts toward non‑smoking areas, please reposition.
• Trash & nature: Use biodegradable cones/papers only; pack out what you pack in. Do not litter roaches or packaging.
• Zero tolerance for impaired driving. Ride‑share & shuttle available.
First Aid Stations
Medical tent near main entrance + roving EMTs. Free services: hydration, basic first aid, emergency response. For immediate assistance ask any volunteer.
Hydration & Restrooms
Free water refill stations (Main Stage, Sound Yard, Healing Grove). ADA accessible restrooms and handwashing stations near vendor market.
Weather Policy
Rain or shine. Severe weather announcements on main speakers. Follow evacuation instructions. No refunds for weather cancellations.
Accessibility Services
ADA pathways, accessible viewing platforms. For sign language interpretation or mobility assistance, visit info booth or email selassiefest@gmail.com (48h notice).
Lost & Found
Main information booth. After event: selassiefest@gmail.com. Unclaimed items held 14 days.
Event Day Contact
Email selassiefest@gmail.com or text (773) 555‑SELA (6 AM – 11 PM). For non‑urgent: selassiefest@gmail.com.
Gates Open 6:00 AM – Close 10:00 PM
6227 Prairie Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637 – Ethiopian Heritage Grounds
Arrive early for security screening. Have your ticket (digital/print) and ID ready. Designated smoking zones open at 8 AM.
Print Full GuidelinesSelassieFest has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy for harassment, violence, theft, or any form of discrimination. Violators will be ejected and banned from future events. By attending, you agree to abide by all rules and guidelines. One Love, One Destiny.