UBC is committed to ensuring the Staff & Faculty BBQ is accessible to everyone. Accessibility has been thoughtfully integrated into the event design to support a wide range of access needs.
What to expect: The event is outdoors. There will be a live band, food, information booths for UBC resources, and the opportunity for socializing with faculty and staff. 5000+ attendees are anticipated, which will be divided across two time slots. There will be tables and chairs on even ground in both covered and uncovered seating areas. Some groups bring picnic blankets for sitting on the grassy areas of Main Mall.
Anticipated wait times: We have worked to reduce wait time from 90 minutes in 2023 to just 9 minutes in 2024. We anticipate that it should take no more than ten minutes from arrival to your place in the buffet line.
Getting there: Plot an accessible route with the UBC Wayfinding Map – a color gradient toggle allows you to find the flattest path. The closest bus stop is the local UBC 68 shuttle, which stops at Wesbrook Mall @ Northwest Marine Drive, which is about 200m from the event space. The nearest bike racks are adjacent to the venue at Koerner Plaza, the Rose Garden, and the Chan Centre for Performing Arts.
Parking: We have temporarily increased the availability of accessible parking at University Centre (Sage Catering) and the Rose Garden Parkade, both of which are less 50 meters from the event. If you have a SPARC pass or a parking accommodation and would like to register to park in one of these locations please contact Stephen Pannuto at the Centre for Workplace Accessibility (CWA) (workplace.accessibility@ubc.ca). Deadline to book an Accessible parking space for the BBQ is September 3.
Food: The food is Canadian and locally sourced. Gluten-free, halal, vegan, and vegetarian options will be available. Please consult the Staff and Faculty BBQ Menu for full information on ingredients and allergens.
Buffet Line: There will be twelve buffet lines, two of which will be designated as priority access lines. Like an access line at airport security, please use this priority access line if you require more time, space, or assistance or if you are an event volunteer. Event staff, who will be wearing UBC lanyards and purple wristbands, can assist in navigating the buffet line, finding a spot to sit, and so on.
Seating: Accessible seating will be reserved. Like riding the bus, if you are seated in an access area and someone who needs this space arrives, please kindly offer your seat. There will be seating near the live band as well as a quieter location on Koerner Plaza.
Sensory considerations: There will be a live band, which will be amplified by speakers. There will be a quieter seating area on Koerner Plaza. Barbequing happens on site and there may be smoke or associated scents.
Washrooms: The nearest accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms can be found at Buchanan Building and Frederic Lasserre Building. For additional locations, consult the Inclusive Washroom Map.
For any questions about the accessibility of the event or if you want to discuss a particular access need, please contact the event’s Access Coordinator, Stephen Pannuto from the Centre for Workplace Accessibility at stephen.pannuto@ubc.ca or by phone at 604-822-2180.