Wayfinding signs, or directional signage, help keep events in order by pointing fans in the right direction, toward concessions, meeting points, and more. Events that are held on large grounds like road races, boat races, and ski resorts rely on wayfinding signage to help participants and visitors get to where they need to go.
Road races can oftentimes be very hectic for spectators, participants, and event planners. With no set stadium, or arena, it can be difficult to indicate where certain people should be at certain times. Also, indicating where rest areas, registration tables, and viewing areas for friends and family can be lost in all the chaos. Wayfinding signs are an excellent solution to controlling crowds and simplifying the road race experience for all. Directional signage can indicate exactly where areas of interest are, using different designs and arrows to point out specific locations. For road race participants, wayfinding signs can indicate where runners can store their belongings, pick up their bib, and register for the race. For spectators, wayfinding signage can help friends and families find the start and finish line, point out points of interest, and indicate where to seek medical attention . Wayfinding signs can also help relieve the stress that the race coordinators and volunteers feel, as it reduces the need to give directions to spectators and participants.
The Heartbreak Hill Half Marathon used wayfinding signage for the exact reasons detailed above.
Other types of events can utilize directional signage similar to road races. The Head of the Charles Regatta is an annual crew race that takes place on the Charles River in Boston, MA. The Head of the Charles used directional signage to point fans into the general direction of the race, concessions, and more.
The unique aspect that the Head of the Charles added to their wayfinding sign is the inclusion of a specific “meeting point” number at the top of each sign. A meeting point is great for events like crew and boat races, which cover large areas, because it makes it easier for friends and family to locate one another.
A different setting where wayfinding signs are frequently used is on ski mountains. Ski and snowboard resorts, like Gunstock Mountain in New Hampshire, use wayfinding signs for a handful of reasons. The most common reason a ski resort uses wayfinding signs is to indicate where the lodge and the lifts are. Wayfinding signs are also used to point skiers and snowboarders in the direction of certain trails, while also indicating their level of difficulty.
Directional signage is also useful at ski resorts that host events and races. Just like a road race or a crew race, the directional signs are useful to indicate where participants can sign in, along with other important details. Red Bull hosted the Red Bull Butter Cup and used wayfinding signs to display the schedule of events, as well as recognize their sponsors.
Wayfinding signs indicate the locations of areas of interest. Events of all types can benefit from adding wayfinding signs to their event. The clear directions that they provide for spectators and participants help events run smoothly. Directional signs enhance the fan experience and lessen the burden on event coordinators. Want to see how wayfinding signage can help your organization? Learn more here!
