Attending Concerts and Events as a Celiac: 7 Things To Know

Going to concerts and festivals can be an incredible experience, but for those with celiac disease, it can be a minefield of potential gluten exposure. As someone who has been living with Celiac for over 10 years, I know firsthand the challenges of navigating these events while also staying safe and healthy. I’ll share my tips and tricks for attending concerts and events as a celiac; all of the fun of “no outside food” events but without compromising your health.

Some of the links on the page are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase from one of the links, I earn money at no extra cost to you. I’ll only recommend brands I’ve used and love (or an alternative I would book myself). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I always pay for my own travel. I’ll be sure to let you know if that ever changes. If you choose to click through and purchase – thanks so much for the support!

Just remember, my celiac isn’t your celiac or gluten-free journey (or anyone else’s). Some of the things I’m comfortable with, you may not be, and you may have a different experience with the restaurants than I did. I hope you do because I had a great experience! But, you do you, no judgment and no pressure. I hope to shed some insight to make your planning easier.

1- You are protected under ADA (In the US)

Okay, before we dive into this section; I’m not a lawyer. I’m just a girl who has Celiac and has tried to understand what this law means for me.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) comes into play here. In 2008 the act was expanded. It’s a technical document but if you want to see the specific sections look at Section 4 parts 2A and B.

Since Celiac impacts our immune system we are included under the ADA. Part 2A also mentions eating.

The ADA can help you in a few different settings and basically means that companies and employers can’t discriminate against you because of your Celiac diagnosis.

But, for concerts, festivals, and other “no outside food allowed” events the ADA can help. It would require that the venue let you bring in food if there is no other safe food available to you.

Just know the ADA helps you out! But, before getting technical with anyone talk to a lawyer who understands the ADA.

Also, just because this is what’s supposed to happen doesn’t mean that it will. So, even though it helps it’s not always a guarantee.

2- Call or Check with the Venue In Advance

Just like with travel, attending concerts and events as a celiac is easier if you have a plan! Even though we know you’re protected under the ADA, reach out to the venue in advance.

Venues and organizations each handle this differently. So, it’s important to know what to expect.

A few months in advance, or as early as you can, reach out to the venue. You can call, chat, or email if you prefer.

I’ve also had great luck sending a DM on Instagram. I’d imagine it’s the same for Twitter or TikTok.

Explain that you are attending an event, have Celiac, and would like to know the process for bringing some food in with you.

I haven’t had much luck finding what I needed on websites. It’s there but it’s buried.

Ask questions you need answers to. Make sure you feel confident.

3- Take a Doctor’s Note (just in case)

I can’t believe I’m even having to list this.

First, note, that you’re not really required to show a doctor’s note and they aren’t really supposed to ask.

You should be able to get away with “I have celiac and this food is required medically”. Or something. Most of the time the gate workers just let you go and move on.

Let’s be real, if you mention medical needs no one wants to get into it and get sued.

There was a case recently where a train company didn’t let someone bring food in even though they had food allergies. They lost a lawsuit and updated their policy.

But, we just want to have a good time. Not go to court.

So, to help your chances you can ask your doctor to write a note that states your diagnosis and that you need to provide your own food.

I’ve never had to show a doctor’s note to my employer or any other entity. So, hopefully, you’ll have my luck!

4- Follow the Other Guidelines

You’ll still need to follow every other guideline for the stadium. So, for example, you’ll need a clear bag that meets the size restrictions. You’ll also want to be sure you aren’t bringing in any other restricted items.

We’re allowed to “break” the rule in regards to food but it makes it easier on everyone if you know and follow the other regulations.

5-Be Reasonable With What You Bring

When you’re packing your bag for the event be reasonable. Take all of the things you need in your “kit” to keep yourself feeling good.

If you can buy it there please don’t try to pack it in with you. You may get away with it but it’s more likely you won’t.

So, if you can buy snickers and bottles of water at the event (over-priced as they may be) you should plan for that.

Also, expect that you’ll only be able to bring in pre-packaged foods. This may not technically be the rule but it seems like it could easily be a thing for health code/safety reasons. Just go ahead and pack all of your pre-packaged favorites.

6- Have a Plan for Before and After

Of course, doing anything with Celiac means you need a plan! When it comes to attending concerts and events as a celiac, you need a plan for the event AND the time before and after.

Before your concert/event, plan to get a good gluten-free meal. That may mean packing a cooler and some staples with you. Or, if you’re lucky you can find a good gluten-free restaurant.

Even if you have to eat a weird time you should get a good meal before you head into your event.

If you’re eating at a restaurant, make your reservations well. You don’t have as many choices as others and it’s important to be prepared.

After the concert/event, have water and snacks in your car or hotel room. It’s another bonus if you can eat more afterward. I typically find I’m so exhausted that I just crash.

The following morning grab breakfast or brunch. All the better if you can find a dedicated gluten-free bakery!

7-Plan for it to go Poorly

This is probably really negative. But, you just never know how things are going when you enter the stadium. I’ve read as many success stories as I’ve read horror stories. Hopefully, if you’ve done the legwork before you’ll be fine.

But, have a plan for ditching snacks or heading back to the car to store them.

This is also why it’s a good idea to eat well before you head to the venue. Plan for all scenarios and hope it goes smoothly!

Attending Concerts and Events as a Celiac

It takes more planning to do anything as a celiac and it’s the same for concerts and events.

But, do your research and ask questions beforehand. Set yourself up for success and then enjoy the show!