Mueca Festival Prioritizes Universal Accessibility in Puerto de la Cruz

Universal accessibility is at the heart of the 2026 Mueca International Street Art Festival, which begins this Thursday in Puerto de la Cruz. Organizers have launched a major effort to ensure that everyone—regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive ability—can fully enjoy the festival’s cultural program.

This push to remove barriers is more than just a courtesy; it is a commitment to cultural rights and aligns with European regulations requiring publicly funded events to provide equal access. To achieve this, the festival is using a variety of tools, including induction loops, vibration systems, sign language interpreters, and accessible signage. A central "Orange Point" near the Casa de la Aduana will also be available throughout the four-day event to provide personalized assistance.

To help with planning, attendees can request specific support through the festival’s website. While most of the 105 performances are free, five high-demand shows require a reservation for a symbolic fee of two euros via the Tomaticket platform. This includes the festival’s opening performance, Otto Stragman by the company Abubukaka, which takes place this Thursday at 9:00 p.m.

By providing dedicated spaces for people with reduced mobility and integrating accessible technology, Mueca is setting a new standard for street festivals in the Canary Islands. By prioritizing inclusion, the festival is not only reaching a wider audience but also proving that art can be truly accessible to everyone.